The third of four survey vessels (Large) being built by GRSE/L&T for the Indian Navy was launched on Saturday at Kattupalli, Chennai.
At the Launch Ceremony, which was attended by VAdm MA Hampiholi, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Naval Command, she made her initial contact with the sea of the Bay of Bengal at 10:40 a.m “According to a release from the Ministry of Defense.
“On October 30, 2018, MoD and GRSE, Kolkata, signed a contract for the construction of four SVL ships for a total of 2435 crore. According to GRSE’s build plan, the first ship is being built in the company’s facility in Kolkata, and the remaining three ships’ construction (up to the outfitting stage) has been subcontracted to M/s L&T Shipbuilding in Kattupalli “declared the ministry.
The Sandhayak, the first ship of the class, was launched on December 5, 2021.
To collect oceanographic data, survey vessels-large (SVL) ships will replace the current Sandhayak Class survey ships with newer hydrographic technology.
The Survey Vessel (Large) ships are 231 people strong and 110 metres long by 16 metres broad. They have a deep displacement of 3400 tonnes.
Two main engines in twin shaft configuration make up the ship’s propulsion system, which is intended to propel it at a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruise speed of 14 knots.
For better manoeuvring at low speeds necessary for shallow water survey operations, Bow & Stern Thrusters have been designed.
These ships’ hulls are constructed of DMR 249-A steel, which Steel Authority of India Limited produced domestically.
With a capability to carry four Survey Motor Boats and an integral helicopter, the primary role of the ships would be to undertake full scale coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys of Ports and navigational channels.
The ships would also be deployed for collecting oceanographic and geophysical data for defence as well as civil applications. In their secondary role, the ships are capable of providing limited defence, besides serving as Hospital ships during emergencies, the ministry said.
L&T and GRSE intend to deliver “Ikshak” by October 2023 despite difficulties brought on by the covid-19 epidemic.
The third Survey Vessel’s launch solidifies our commitment to domestic shipbuilding as part of the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” visions of our Prime Minister.
Over 80% of the survey vessels’ cost will be made up of native materials.
Additionally, this will guarantee that large-scale defence production is carried out by Indian industrial facilities, creating jobs and strengthening national capabilities.
