The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Nirdeshak, an advanced survey vessel, on December 18, 2024, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. This state-of-the-art ship, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, is the second vessel under the Survey Vessel (Large) Project. With over 80% indigenous components, INS Nirdeshak reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic technology, the ship will enhance India’s maritime operations, strengthen its presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and continue the legacy of its predecessor, which served the Navy for 32 years.
Key Features and Specifications of INS Nirdeshak
Dimensions and Capabilities
- Length: 110 meters.
- Weight: 3,800 tons.
- Propulsion: Powered by dual diesel engines for efficient performance.
- Speed: Capable of speeds exceeding 18 knots.
- Endurance: Can operate for over 25 days at sea, ensuring sustained maritime operations.
Indigenous Construction
- Built by GRSE, Kolkata, with 80% indigenous components, aligning with India’s Make in India initiative.
- Supports the domestic defense industry by promoting self-reliance and reducing dependency on imports.
Advanced Hydrographic Equipment
INS Nirdeshak is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for hydrographic and oceanographic surveys:
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicle: For detailed underwater exploration.
- Digital Sonar and DGPS Long-Range Systems: For precise navigation and mapping.
- Data Acquisition Systems: To collect and analyze maritime data for operational and research purposes.
Operational Role and Strategic Importance
Enhanced Maritime Operations
- Designed to perform:
- Sea floor mapping.
- Maritime navigation.
- Hydrographic and oceanographic surveys.
- Supports naval operations by ensuring accurate maritime data for safe and efficient navigation.
Strategic Positioning in the Indian Ocean Region
- Bolsters India’s presence in the strategically significant Indian Ocean Region.
- Enhances international cooperation in marine surveys and maritime security.
Legacy of INS Nirdeshak
Honoring Its Predecessor
The new INS Nirdeshak continues the legacy of its predecessor, which served the Indian Navy for 32 years before being decommissioned in 2014.
Technological Evolution
- Incorporates advancements in hydrographic technology and naval architecture.
- Reflects the Navy’s modernization efforts to address contemporary maritime challenges.
Performance and Endurance
- Range and Speed: INS Nirdeshak’s extended range and speed enable extensive surveys and operational endurance.
- Sustained Operations: The ship’s capability to operate continuously for over 25 days at sea ensures uninterrupted maritime exploration and support.
Historical Milestones
- Keel Laid: December 1, 2020.
- Launched: May 26, 2022.
- Delivered: After completing rigorous trials, showcasing operational readiness.
Significance of INS Nirdeshak
Boosting Maritime Capabilities
- Enhances the Indian Navy’s ability to conduct precise hydrographic surveys and support safe navigation.
Strategic Maritime Presence
- Strengthens India’s influence in the IOR, ensuring secure maritime trade routes and bolstering regional security.
Promoting Self-Reliance
- Demonstrates India’s progress in defense manufacturing and technological innovation under the Make in India initiative.
FAQs About INS Nirdeshak
1. What is INS Nirdeshak?
INS Nirdeshak is an advanced survey ship commissioned by the Indian Navy for hydrographic and oceanographic surveys.
2. What are its key features?
The ship is 110 meters long, weighs 3,800 tons, and is equipped with advanced technology like digital sonar, autonomous underwater vehicles, and DGPS systems.
3. What is its operational role?
INS Nirdeshak is designed for sea floor mapping, maritime navigation, and supporting naval operations in the Indian Ocean Region.
4. Why is the ship significant?
It strengthens India’s maritime capabilities, enhances its strategic presence in the Indian Ocean, and promotes self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
5. Where was the ship built?
The ship was constructed by GRSE, Kolkata, with over 80% indigenous components.
The commissioning of INS Nirdeshak is a monumental step in bolstering India’s naval capabilities and maritime presence. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and constructed under the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, this ship reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its navy and achieving self-reliance in defense. As it begins its service, INS Nirdeshak will not only honor the legacy of its predecessor but also pave the way for a stronger, more secure maritime future for India.
