INS Sandhayak, the first indigenously designed and constructed Survey Vessel Large (SVL), made its maiden foreign port call at Port Klang, Malaysia for hydrographic cooperation. Visit signifies India’s expanding maritime diplomacy and the role of the Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD) under the National Hydrographic Office (NHO) in regional capacity building.
Key Highlights of Port Call (Malaysia)
- Objective: Facilitate technical exchanges & strengthen institutional ties in hydrography.
- Activities conducted:
- Knowledge-exchange sessions on survey technologies.
- Official receptions to foster goodwill.
- Events promoting MAHASAGAR Vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
- Significance: Reinforces India’s commitment to regional maritime cooperation & awareness-building in the Indo-Pacific.
INS Sandhayak (Yard 3025)
- Commissioned: February 2024
- Class: First ship of Sandhayak-class Hydrographic Survey Vessels
- Indigenous Content: 80% (designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), Kolkata)
- Speed: 18+ knots (powered by two diesel engines)
- Capabilities:
- Primary Role: Full-scale hydrographic surveys of ports, harbours, navigational channels, coastal & deep seas → ensures safe marine navigation.
- Secondary Role: Search & Rescue (SAR); Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR); Naval operations support
- Additional Facilities: Helicopter operations, onboard hospital, oceanographic data collection.
Advanced Equipment Onboard
- Deep & Shallow Water Multi-Beam Echo Sounders
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
- Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
- Side Scan Sonars
- Data Acquisition & Processing System
- Satellite-based Positioning Systems
- Terrestrial Survey Equipment
Symbolism:
- “Sandhayak” = “One who carries out a special search.”
- Crest: Sixteen points of a mariner’s compass + divider + anchor → symbolising navigation & ocean charting.
Strategic Significance
- Strengthens India’s blue economy & maritime security framework.
- Supports Indo-Pacific stability and India’s image as a net security provider.
- Enhances India’s Hydrographic Cooperation Agreements with countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Promotes Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) in advanced naval shipbuilding.
Key Facts
Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD):
- Established in 1954; HQ – Dehradun.
- Functions under National Hydrographic Office (NHO).
- Publishes Indian Navigational Charts (INCs), tide tables, and nautical publications.
Hydrography Importance:
- Scientific study of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers.
- Essential for safe navigation, port development, disaster management, resource mapping.
GRSE (Garden Reachxs Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd.):
- PSU shipyard under MoD (est. 1884, taken over by Govt. 1960).
- Major indigenous shipbuilder for Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
India’s Maritime Vision 2030:
- Focus on blue economy, coastal infrastructure, and maritime security.
- INS Sandhayak aligns with “MAHASAGAR” vision and SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region).