Indian Navy Enhances Hydrographic Fleet with Final Vessel INS Sanshodhak Delivery
The Indian Navy has officially taken delivery of its fourth and final Survey Vessel (Large), INS Sanshodhak, on March 30, 2026, from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited. This milestone signifies the successful conclusion of the four-ship SVL initiative, which greatly augments India's hydrographic survey capabilities.
Completion of Strategic Survey Vessel Project
INS Sanshodhak, designated as Yard 3028, is the last in the series of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships. The contract for these vessels was formalized on October 30, 2018.
The prior ships in this class include:
| INS Sandhayak | Commissioned February 2024 |
| INS Nirdeshak | Commissioned December 2024 |
| INS Ikshak | Commissioned November 2025 |
Advanced Hydrographic Capabilities
Designed by the Warship Design Bureau and constructed according to Indian Register of Shipping standards, INS Sanshodhak is equipped for various tasks including:
| Coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys |
| Mapping port and harbour approaches |
| Identification of safe navigation routes |
| Collection of oceanographic and geophysical data |
These capabilities are essential for both defense operations and civilian maritime activities.
State-of-the-Art Equipment and Specifications
The vessel is outfitted with advanced hydrographic and survey systems such as:
| Data Acquisition and Processing Systems |
| Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) |
| Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) |
| DGPS long-range positioning systems |
| Digital Side Scan Sonar |
Key specifications include:
| Displacement | ~3,400 tonnes |
| Length | 110 metres |
| Speed | Over 18 knots |
| Power | Twin diesel engines |
Indigenous Strength and Construction Timeline
The vessel boasts an indigenisation level of over 80%, underscoring India's increasing self-reliance in shipbuilding.
| Keel laid | June 2022 |
| Launched | June 2023 |
| Delivered | March 2026 |
Prior to delivery, the ship underwent comprehensive harbour and sea trials.
Strategic Significance
The induction of INS Sanshodhak bolsters India's capabilities to conduct precise maritime surveys, enhance navigational safety, and support naval operations in the Indian Ocean Region.
It also demonstrates the successful collaboration between the government, MSMEs, and the Indian shipbuilding industry.
Conclusion
The delivery of INS Sanshodhak concludes a vital naval project and reinforces India's commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, enhancing maritime domain awareness and operational readiness in strategically significant waters.
