Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth is scheduled to visit Visakhapatnam on December 18 to preside over the commissioning ceremony of INS Nirdeshak at the Naval Dockyard. The ceremony will be hosted by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, with the presence of senior naval officials and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).
INS Nirdeshak, a notable addition to the Indian Navy, was constructed at GRSE in Kolkata and features over 80% indigenous content. This reflects India’s growing expertise in ship design and construction, showcasing the Indian Navy’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance in defense capabilities. The ship measures 110 meters in length and has a displacement of approximately 3,800 tons. It is powered by two diesel engines and incorporates advanced Hydrographic and Oceanographic Survey Equipment, emphasizing the technological advancements in India’s maritime capabilities.
As the second ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, INS Nirdeshak is specifically designed to conduct hydrographic surveys, assist in navigation, and support various maritime operations. It is a modern embodiment of the earlier Nirdeshak, which served the Indian Navy for an impressive 32 years before its decommissioning on December 19, 2014.
The new vessel boasts an endurance of over 25 days at sea and can reach speeds exceeding 18 knots. INS Nirdeshak is expected to significantly enhance India’s maritime capabilities and will play a crucial role in mapping the nation’s waters. Additionally, it aims to strengthen India’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region through cooperation in foreign maritime surveys, reflecting New Delhi’s growing focus on securing its maritime interests.
