The Indian Navy will, on Wednesday, commission its latest survey ship, INS Nirdeshak, designed to conduct hydrographic surveys, help in navigation, and support maritime operations.
'Nirdeshak', the second ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, is a testament to India's increased focus towards self-reliance in defence as it has over 80 per cent indigenous content.
The ship, built at GRSE Kolkata, with a displacement of approximately 3,800 tonnes, is powered by two diesel engines and is equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic survey equipment.
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It represents the reincarnation of the erstwhile 'Nirdeshak', which served the Indian Navy with distinction for 32 years until its decommissioning on December 19, 2014, a defence ministry spokesperson said.
"With an endurance of over 25 days at sea and a top speed exceeding 18 knots, INS Nirdeshak is set to enhance India's maritime capabilities. It will play a pivotal role in mapping the nation's waters and strengthening India's strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region through its foreign cooperation surveys."
The Navy also unveiled the crest of the INS Nirdeshak—'the Pathfinder of the Seas'—which symbolises the virtues of India's maritime sovereignty and technological prowess.
At its heart, lies the proud symbol of India's territorial integrity serving as the backdrop to a hydrographic survey ship cutting through waves, harnessing the advanced satellite-based navigation and communication systems, and state-of-the-art sub-surface sensors to chart the underwater terrain with precision, the Navy said.
The commissioning ceremony at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam will be presided over by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth. The ceremony will be hosted by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.