A Milestone in Indigenous Shipbuilding and Hydrographic Surveying
New Delhi, October 8, 2024 – The Indian Navy has officially taken delivery of Nirdeshak (Yard 3026), the second of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships, from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. This delivery, made on October 8, 2024, marks a significant advancement in India’s maritime capabilities and underscores the government’s commitment to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Specifications and Capabilities
Nirdeshak, following the commissioning of its sister ship INS Sandhayak on February 3, 2024, is designed to perform comprehensive hydrographic surveys in both coastal and deep-water environments. The ship’s main functions include:
- Conducting hydrographic surveys of ports and harbour approaches.
- Determining navigational channels and routes.
- Collecting oceanographic and geophysical data for both defence and civil applications.
With a displacement of approximately 3,400 tons and an overall length of 110 meters, Nirdeshak is equipped with advanced hydrographic technologies, including:
- Data acquisition and processing systems
- Autonomous underwater vehicles
- Remotely operated vehicles
- DGPS long-range positioning systems
- Digital side-scan sonar
Powered by two diesel engines, Nirdeshak can achieve speeds exceeding 18 knots, making it a formidable asset for maritime operations.
Development Timeline and Indigenous Contributions
The keel of Nirdeshak was laid on December 1, 2020, and it was launched on May 26, 2022. The ship has undergone rigorous trials both in harbour and at sea, ensuring its readiness for operational deployment.
Notably, Nirdeshak boasts an indigenous content of over 80% by cost, reflecting the concerted efforts of various stakeholders, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the broader Indian industry. This delivery not only enhances India’s maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean Region but also serves as a testament to the growing capabilities of the nation’s shipbuilding sector.
The induction of Nirdeshak into the Indian Navy’s fleet represents a significant step forward in enhancing the country’s hydrographic surveying capabilities and maritime security. It highlights the government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and the collaborative efforts of the Indian industry to boost the nation’s maritime strength.
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