INS Ikshak Joins Indian Navy: Features and Future Missions

INS Ikshak is the third of the Survey Vessel Large (SVL). It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in a ceremonial event at Naval Base, Kochi on 06 Nov 2025. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of the Naval Staff. VAdm Sameer Saxena, FOCINC (South), and senior Naval officers were also present. Naval veterans attended the event. Representatives of Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and distinguished civilian dignitaries were present too. This was a momentous occasion. It marked the formal induction of INS Ikshak. The event reflected the Indian Navy’s steadfast commitment to enhancing its hydrographic and maritime capabilities.

The commissioning ceremony commenced with the reading of the ship’s Commissioning Warrant by Captain Tribhuvan Singh, the Commanding Officer. Thereafter, the Naval ensign was hoisted. The national anthem played. A ceremonial salute was given by the ‘Colour Guard’ proudly presented by the crew. Simultaneously, the ship’s commissioning pennant was also hoisted, signifying its induction into active Naval service. The pennant will remain aflutter till the time the ship remains in commission. The Commissioning Plaque was unveiled by the CNS.

Also read: PM to dedicate three frontline naval combatants INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer to the nation at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai

INS Ikshak to Enhance Maritime Capabilities

In his address, the Chief of the Naval Staff praised INS Ikshak. He described it as a testament to effective collaboration between the Indian Navy, Indian industries, and MSMEs. It is an embodiment of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic systems, the ship offers unmatched operational versatility.

The vessel provides helicopter support and has a dual-role capability. It serves both as a survey vessel and a platform for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. It can also act as a hospital ship when required. Notably,  Ikshak   is the first SVL designed with dedicated women’s accommodation, underscoring the Navy’s commitment to inclusivity and modernisation. Its induction significantly augments India’s hydrographic survey capability and indigenous shipbuilding capacity. INS Ikshak is poised to chart uncharted waters, enhance maritime safety, and reinforce national security across vital sea lanes. The CNS highlighted the ship’s pivotal role in advancing India’s maritime interests and strategic reach. On arrival, the Chief of the Naval Staff was presented with a 50-men Guard of Honour.

After the commissioning ceremony, the CNS visited various sections of the ship. He was briefed on the construction journey. The briefing included the integration of indigenous systems. He interacted with the commissioning crew and officials from GRSE. He commended their professionalism and dedication. Their contribution was vital to the successful induction of INS Ikshak into the Indian Navy.

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