GRSE Delivers 113th warship ‘Ikshak’ Survey Vessel to Navy

 In a fresh boost to India’s naval capabilities and indigenous shipbuilding drive, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has handed over the Survey Vessel (Large) Ikshak to the Indian Navy. The delivery marks yet another milestone for the shipyard, which has built and delivered more warships for the Navy than any other yard in the country.

‘Ikshak’, meaning “Guide,” is the third vessel in a series of four Sandhayak-class SVLs designed for detailed hydrographic surveys. The first of the class, INS Sandhayak, joined the Navy in December 2023, followed by INS Nirdeshak in October 2024. The fourth and final vessel is currently under construction. Notably, this handover comes less than a month after GRSE delivered the advanced guided missile frigate Himgiri, underscoring the shipyard’s high production pace.

At 110 metres long, the Ikshak is one of the largest survey platforms ever built in India. It is also the 802nd ship and the 113th warship to roll out of GRSE’s docks, making it the 75th warship delivered to the Indian Navy by the shipyard since their partnership began in 1961 with the indigenous warship INS Ajay. Over the decades, this collaboration has transformed the Navy from a “buyer” of warships to a self-reliant builder, in line with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Advanced Hydrographic Capabilities

The Ikshak is equipped with sophisticated survey systems to conduct full-scale coastal and deep-sea hydrographic surveys, including mapping port approaches, navigation channels, and offshore routes. The data gathered will be used not only for naval operational planning but also to update maritime charts for commercial shipping. The vessel can also undertake maritime limit surveys and collect oceanographic and geographical data critical for defence purposes.

Multi-Role Functionality

The SVL class can carry a helicopter, perform low-intensity combat missions, and be quickly converted into a hospital ship for medical emergencies. Its design also supports Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, making it a vital tool during natural disasters.

Powered by two marine diesel engines and equipped with fixed-pitch propellers along with bow and stern thrusters, the vessel can manoeuvre with precision at low speeds—essential for accurate survey work. Built using Integrated Construction technology and adhering to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards, the Ikshak stands as an example of modern naval engineering.

Looking Ahead

GRSE is currently building 14 more warships for the Indian Navy, including two Project 17A advanced guided missile frigates, one more SVL, seven anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts, and four next-generation offshore patrol vessels.

The delivery of Ikshak reinforces India’s maritime mapping strength at a time when accurate and rapid hydrographic data is increasingly vital for both strategic and commercial reasons. With this addition, the Navy is better positioned to maintain secure sea lanes, support maritime trade, and respond effectively to challenges across the Indian Ocean region.