Context:
Recently, the Indian Navy celebrated the commissioning of its latest survey vessel, INS Sandhayak, at the Naval Dockyard in Vizag.
About INS Sandhayak:
- It is constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
- Its primary objective is to conduct comprehensive coastal and deep-water Hydrographic Surveys, aiding in the determination of navigational routes and channels for ports and harbors.
- The operational range of the vessel spans up to maritime boundaries, encompassing the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the extended continental shelf.
- In addition to its hydrographic duties, the vessel is equipped to gather oceanographic and geophysical data, serving both military and civilian purposes.
- In a secondary role, it can provide limited defense capabilities and function as a hospital ship during times of conflict or emergencies.
- To boost cutting-edge hydrographic tools such as a Data Acquisition and Processing System, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, a Remotely Operated Vehicle, DGPS Long-range positioning systems, and Digital side-scan sonar.
- Powered by two diesel engines, the vessel has a remarkable speed capability exceeding 18 knots with dimensions measuring 110 meters in length and displacing 3400 tons.