Sanshodhak, the last Survey Vessel (Large) built for the Indian Navy, has been delivered after completing harbour and sea trials. Built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd in Kolkata, the ship is the fourth vessel in the class and strengthens India’s hydrographic survey capability for both defence and civil use.
Key Features of Sanshodhak
Sanshodhak has a displacement of about 3,400 tonnes and an overall length of 110 metres. It is powered by two diesel engines and can sail at speeds above 18 knots. The ship is fitted with modern survey systems, including:
- Data Acquisition and Processing System
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
- Remotely Operated Vehicle
- DGPS long-range positioning systems
- Digital Side Scan Sonar
Operational Role
The ship is designed for full-scale coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys. It can survey port and harbour approaches and determine navigational channels and routes. It will also collect oceanographic and geophysical data. Such data supports maritime safety, naval planning, and civilian coastal development.
Indigenous Build and Contract Background
The contract for four Survey Vessel (Large) ships was signed on 30 October 2018. The earlier ships in the class are INS Sandhayak, INS Nirdeshak and INS Ikshak. Sanshodhak was laid down in June 2022 and launched in June 2023. The ship has an indigenous content of more than 80% by cost, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance in naval shipbuilding.
Significance for Maritime Capability
The delivery of Sanshodhak adds to India’s hydrographic and survey capacity in the Indian Ocean Region. It supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat goal by involving Indian shipyards, MSMEs and industry partners. The vessel will help improve charting, navigation safety and maritime domain awareness.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026