INS Ikshak Commissioned into Indian Navy, Boosting Hydrographic and Maritime Capabilities
Marking a major step toward strengthening India’s hydrographic and maritime capabilities, the induction of INS Ikshak underscores the Navy’s commitment to advancing indigenous shipbuilding under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Third Survey Vessel Large (SVL) Ship Reflects India’s Push for Indigenous Shipbuilding and Maritime Self-Reliance
Kochi, November 7: The Indian Navy commissioned INS Ikshak, the third ship of the Survey Vessel Large (SVL) class, in a ceremonial event held at the Naval Base, Kochi, on Thursday. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, in the presence of Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South), senior naval officers, veterans, representatives of Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and distinguished guests.
Marking a major step toward strengthening India’s hydrographic and maritime capabilities, the induction of INS Ikshak underscores the Navy’s commitment to advancing indigenous shipbuilding under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The event began with a 50-men Guard of Honour to the Chief of the Naval Staff, followed by the reading of the ship’s Commissioning Warrant by Captain Tribhuvan Singh, Commanding Officer of INS Ikshak. The Naval Ensign was hoisted alongside the National Anthem and a ceremonial salute by the ‘Colour Guard,’ as the Commissioning Pennant was raised—symbolising the ship’s induction into active service. Admiral Tripathi also unveiled the Commissioning Plaque to mark the occasion.
In his address, Admiral Tripathi hailed INS Ikshak as a “testament to effective collaboration between the Indian Navy, Indian industries, and MSMEs.” He noted that the vessel represents “the spirit of innovation, indigenisation, and inclusivity,” being the first SVL ship designed with dedicated accommodation for women personnel.
Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic systems and helicopter support, INS Ikshak is built to undertake precise hydrographic surveys and simultaneously serve as a platform for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations or even as a hospital ship when required. Its dual-role capability enhances operational versatility, enabling India to reinforce maritime safety, national security, and strategic outreach.
Following the commissioning, the Chief of the Naval Staff visited various sections of the ship and reviewed indigenous systems integrated during construction. He interacted with the commissioning crew and officials from GRSE, commending their professionalism and dedication in achieving another milestone in India’s naval modernisation journey.
INS Ikshak now joins its sister ships in strengthening the Navy’s hydrographic fleet, furthering India’s capacity to chart uncharted waters and safeguard the nation’s maritime frontiers.
