The INS Shardul is a prominent vessel in the Indian Navy, serving as the lead ship of the Shardul class landing ships. These ships are designed for amphibious warfare, which means they are equipped to launch operations on land from the sea. Commissioned on January 4, 2007, the INS Shardul has been an active participant in various missions and operations, highlighting its versatility and importance within the Indian Navy’s fleet.
Commissioning and Design
The INS Shardul was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in early 2007, marking the addition of a significant asset to India’s maritime capabilities. As a landing ship, the INS Shardul is built to carry troops, tanks, and equipment to support amphibious assault operations. Its design allows for the rapid deployment of forces onto a beachhead, typically during an amphibious invasion.
Surveillance Mission in the Indian Ocean
A decade after its commissioning, in 2017, the INS Shardul undertook a significant two-month-long surveillance mission in the Indian Ocean. This operation was part of the Indian Navy’s broader strategy to maintain a vigilant presence in the region, which is crucial for India’s maritime security and trade interests. The surveillance mission also underscored India’s commitment to ensuring stability and security in the Indian Ocean, a vital waterway for global commerce.
Operation Samudra Sethu
In recent years, the INS Shardul has been instrumental in humanitarian and repatriation efforts. Last year, it played a key role in Operation Samudra Sethu, a mission aimed at repatriating Indian citizens stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The operation demonstrated the ship’s ability to quickly adapt to different roles, from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.
Ongoing Efforts in Operation Samudra Sethu II
Continuing its service in critical missions, the INS Shardul is currently engaged in Operation Samudra Sethu II. This operation involves bringing much-needed oxygen containers from Kuwait to support India’s healthcare system, which is under immense pressure due to the COVID-19 crisis. The vessel’s deployment in this operation is a testament to the Indian Navy’s swift response to emergency situations and its capacity to provide logistical support in times of need.
The INS Shardul, with its diverse capabilities and proven track record, remains a vital component of the Indian Navy’s efforts to secure national interests and provide humanitarian aid. Its operations and deployments showcase the multifaceted role that modern naval vessels play in contemporary maritime affairs.
