The Indian Navy is set to commission its second ship under the Survey Vessel project, INS Nirdeshak, in an official ceremony scheduled for December 18 at the Naval Dockyard in Vishakapatnam. The event will be graced by Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, alongside senior naval officers, dignitaries, and representatives from the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), which constructed the vessel.
The Navy has revealed the crest for INS Nirdeshak, referring to it as “the Pathfinder of the Seas.” This ship symbolizes excellence, precision, and India’s maritime pride. The crest reflects the nation’s commitment to maritime sovereignty and showcases its technological capabilities. At the center of the crest is a representation of the hydrographic survey ship, set against the backdrop of the national emblem, which signifies territorial integrity. It illustrates the ship’s advanced satellite navigation and communication systems, along with state-of-the-art sub-surface sensors designed to accurately map underwater terrain.
INS Nirdeshak continues the legacy of its predecessor, which served in the Navy for 32 years before its decommissioning in December 2014. The new vessel is poised to enhance India’s strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and will play a crucial role in foreign cooperation surveys, thereby advancing India’s maritime diplomacy and regional partnerships.
Key features of INS Nirdeshak include its construction by GRSE in Kolkata, with around 80% of the components sourced domestically. Stretching 110 meters in length and displacing approximately 3,800 tons, the ship is powered by two diesel engines that enable it to reach speeds exceeding 18 knots. Equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic and oceanographic tools, INS Nirdeshak is adept at conducting hydrographic surveys, aiding navigation, and supporting various maritime operations. Its endurance is another noteworthy aspect, capable of remaining operational at sea for over 25 days, ensuring its effectiveness in both domestic and international waters.
