INS Ikshak, commissioned in Kochi, enhances the disaster response capability of the Navy

INS Ikshak, the third ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) class, was commissioned into the Indian Navy at a ceremonial event at the Naval Base, Kochi on November 6, 2025. The ceremony was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, in the presence of Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Commander-in-Chief of the Flag (South), senior Naval officers, veterans, representatives of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), and distinguished guests.

The event marked the formal introduction of INS Ikshak and symbolized the Navy’s continued efforts to enhance its hydrographic and maritime capabilities. Upon arrival, Admiral Tripathi was given a guard of honor of 50 men.

The ceremony began with the reading of the commissioning order by Captain Tribhuvan Singh, the ship’s Commanding Officer, followed by hoisting of the Navy Flag and National Anthem. The commissioning pennant was raised, indicating the ship’s entry into active naval service, and the commissioning plaque was unveiled by the Chief of the Naval Staff.

In his address, Admiral Tripathi described INS Ikshak as a milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance, calling it a product of close collaboration between the Indian Navy, domestic industries and MSMEs – in line with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Equipped with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic systems, the ship provides dual operational capabilities, conducting maritime surveys and serving as a Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) platform or hospital ships when necessary. It is also the first ship in the SVL class to be designed with dedicated accommodations for female officers and sailors, reflecting the Navy’s emphasis on inclusivity and modernization.

The introduction of INS Ikshak, built by GRSE, Kolkata, strengthens India’s hydrographic survey capacity and underlines the country’s growing expertise in indigenous shipbuilding. The Chief of the Naval Staff said the ship will play a crucial role in advancing India’s maritime interests, ensuring maritime security and supporting national security operations across vital sea lanes.

After commissioning, Admiral Tripathi toured various parts of the ship where he was briefed on the construction and integration of indigenous systems. He interacted with the commanding crew and GRSE officials and commended their professionalism and contribution to the Navy’s modernization efforts.

– Ends