INS Sandhayak: The First Indigenous Survey Vessel Large (SVL)

INS Sandhayak is a state-of-the-art Indian Navy survey vessel used for hydrographic surveys, oceanographic data collection, and maritime operations. It supports coastal mapping, disaster response, and strategic marine research.

Context: INS Sandhayak made its maiden port call at Port Klang, Malaysia, to boost hydrographic cooperation between India and Malaysia.

About INS Sandhayak

Class & Commissioning

First ship of the indigenously designed Sandhayak-class hydrographic survey vessels.
Commissioned in February 2024.

Builder

Constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

Primary Role

Designed to conduct coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys.
Supports port and harbour development, and identifies navigational channels and routes.

Operational Area

Can operate up to India’s maritime limits, including the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf.

Secondary Roles

Offers limited defence capability.
Can function as a hospital ship during wartime or humanitarian crises.
Capable of Search and Rescue (SAR) missions with onboard helicopter and medical facilities.