The Indian Navy is set to commission Ikshak, the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) class, on Thursday, 6 November 2025, at the Naval Base in Kochi. Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, will preside over the commissioning ceremony, marking a major step forward in India’s drive for self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.
Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, Ikshak exemplifies indigenous excellence with more than 80 per cent of its components made in India. The ship’s construction showcases the success of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the strong collaboration between GRSE and Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The vessel’s name, meaning “Guide” in Sanskrit, reflects its purpose of enhancing the Navy’s hydrographic survey capabilities. Designed for full-scale coastal and deep-water surveys of ports, harbours and navigational channels, Ikshak will generate critical data to ensure safer maritime navigation and support India’s expanding maritime interests.
Equipped with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic systems, the ship features a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs). Its helicopter deck further enhances operational flexibility, allowing multi-domain missions and extended range operations. The commissioning of Ikshak marks the first time a vessel of this class will be based at the Southern Naval Command. It strengthens the Navy’s hydrographic fleet and underlines India’s growing capacity to design and construct technologically advanced maritime platforms.
A Navy spokesperson said the induction of Ikshak “demonstrates India’s commitment to maritime safety, scientific precision and technological innovation.” As the newest addition to the Navy’s survey fleet, Ikshak stands as a testament to the nation’s progress towards self-reliance and its vision of safeguarding maritime frontiers through indigenous capability and excellence.
