Why is it in the News

Defense minister Rajnath Singh commissioned survey vessel INS Sandhayak into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard recently.

About INS Sandhayak:

• INS Sandhayak stands as the first unit in a series of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships under construction at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
• Its primary mission is to conduct thorough coastal and deep-water Hydrographic Surveys, focusing on Port and Harbour approaches, navigational channels, and routes.
• The operational scope extends to maritime limits, encompassing the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf.

Features:

• • The vessel is equipped to gather oceanographic and geophysical data, serving the needs of both defense and civil applications.
  • In a secondary role, it provides limited defense capabilities and can function as a hospital ship during wartime or emergencies.

• Cutting-Edge Technology:

• • Equipped with advanced hydrographic tools, including a Data Acquisition and Processing System, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, Remotely Operated Vehicle, DGPS Long-range positioning systems, and Digital side-scan sonar.

• Performance Specifications:

• • Powered by two diesel engines, INS Sandhayak boasts a speed capability exceeding 18 knots.
  • With a length of 110 meters and a displacement of 3400 tons, the vessel maintains an indigenous content exceeding 80 per cent by cost.

• Historical Continuity:

• • This ship has been re-incarnated in its current form from the previous Sandhayak, decommissioned in 2021.