The INS Sanshodhak (Yard 3028), the fourth and final ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) series, was delivered to the Indian Navy Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
This marks the completion of an important project aimed at enhancing India’s hydrographic and maritime survey capabilities.
Background of the Project
The contract for building four Survey Vessel (Large) ships was signed on October 30, 2018.
The earlier ships in this class include:
- INS Sandhayak – Commissioned on February 3, 2024
- INS Nirdeshak – Commissioned on December 18, 2024
- INS Ikshak – Commissioned on November 6, 2025
With Sanshodhak’s delivery, the entire series has now been successfully completed.
Design and Construction
The ship has been:
- Designed by the Warship Design Bureau
- Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)
- Constructed as per classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping
This reflects India’s growing expertise in indigenous ship design and construction.
Role and Capabilities
INS Sanshodhak is designed for advanced hydrographic surveys, both in coastal and deep-sea environments.
Key Functions:
- Mapping port and harbour approaches
- Identifying safe navigational routes
- Collecting oceanographic and geophysical data
- Supporting both defence and civilian applications
Advanced Features and Specifications
The vessel is equipped with modern technology and robust systems:
- Displacement: Around 3,400 tonnes
- Length: Approximately 110 meters
- Speed: Over 18 knots (powered by two diesel engines)
State-of-the-Art Equipment:
- Data Acquisition and Processing System
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
- Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
- DGPS-based long-range positioning systems
- Digital Side Scan Sonar
These systems enable precise seabed mapping and underwater exploration.
Construction Timeline
- Keel Laid: June 2022
- Launched: June 2023
- Successfully completed extensive harbour and sea trials before delivery
Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat
With over 80% indigenous content, the project is a strong example of the government’s push for self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
It highlights:
- Collaboration between the Indian Navy, shipbuilders, and MSMEs
- Growth of domestic maritime industry
- Strengthening of India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region