The Indian Navy has taken delivery of INS Sanshodhak, the fourth and final vessel in a crucial four-ship Survey Vessel (Large) project. Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) in Kolkata, this milestone marks the complete fulfilment of a contract awarded in October 2018.

The handover occurred on 30 March 2026, enhancing the Navy's hydrographic survey capabilities significantly.

This project replaces the Navy's ageing survey fleet, which had served for decades. The earlier vessels of the class—INS Sandhayak, INS Nirdeshak, and INS Ikshak—were commissioned progressively between February 2024 and November 2025. Their successful inductions paved the way for Sanshodhak, ensuring a seamless transition to modern platforms.

Designed in-house by the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, Sanshodhak embodies indigenous engineering prowess. GRSE, a leading public-sector shipyard, constructed all four ships, demonstrating India's growing self-reliance in warship building. The keel for Sanshodhak was laid in June 2022, with launch following in June 2023.

Rigorous harbour and sea trials preceded delivery, validating the vessel's performance across diverse conditions. These tests confirmed its readiness for operational deployment, underscoring GRSE's expertise in delivering complex naval assets on schedule.

Measuring approximately 110 metres in length with a displacement of around 3,400 tonnes, Sanshodhak is powered by two diesel engines. It achieves speeds exceeding 18 knots, enabling efficient deployment across India's extensive maritime zones. Endurance and stability make it ideal for prolonged surveys in challenging waters.

The ship bristles with cutting-edge hydrographic equipment. Key systems include advanced data acquisition and processing units, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). These tools facilitate precise seabed mapping and real-time data analysis.

Long-range positioning systems and side-scan sonar further enhance its survey precision. Sanshodhak can chart harbour approaches, navigational routes, and deep-water areas with high accuracy. This capability supports safe maritime navigation for both military and commercial traffic.

Beyond defence applications, the vessel collects vital oceanographic and geophysical data. Such information aids civilian sectors like fisheries, offshore energy exploration, and environmental monitoring. It aligns with India's broader maritime domain awareness strategy.

A standout feature is the vessel's indigenous content, exceeding 80 per cent by cost. This reflects the 'Make in India' initiative's success in defence manufacturing. Over 60 Indian vendors contributed components, from sensors to propulsion systems, boosting local industry and reducing import dependence.

The completion of this SVL project strengthens India's hydrographic infrastructure. The Navy now operates a quartet of modern survey vessels, capable of concurrent operations across the Indian Ocean Region. This fleet will underpin naval operations, disaster response, and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance.

In a geopolitically dynamic region, such assets are invaluable. They enable real-time charting of underwater threats, support submarine operations, and contribute to joint exercises with allies. Sanshodhak's induction thus bolsters India's strategic maritime posture.

GRSE's track record with this project—delivering all ships within timelines and budgets—highlights its role in naval modernisation. The yard has built over 800 vessels since 1934, including frigates and anti-submarine warfare corvettes. This success positions GRSE for future contracts.

The Ministry of Defence emphasised that INS Sanshodhak's arrival completes the SVL programme, a key pillar of the Navy's long-term vision. As India eyes blue-water navy status, investments in survey vessels signal commitment to comprehensive maritime capabilities. Formal commissioning is expected soon, following standard naval protocols.

Agencies