Why is it in the news?

• Sandhayak is a Survey Vessel (Large), representing the first of four ships in its category, designed to fulfil a range of critical maritime survey and data collection functions for the Indian Navy.

More about the news

• The vessel was constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in Kolkata, showcasing the capabilities of Indian shipbuilding in contributing to naval infrastructure.
• Sandhayak’s operational range extends up to the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the extended continental shelf, allowing it to conduct surveys and data collection in diverse maritime environments.
• Functions include
• Hydrographic Survey: The primary role of the ship is to conduct full-scale coastal and deep-water Hydrographic Surveys of Port/Harbour approaches, facilitating the determination of navigational channels and routes.
• Data Collection: The ship is equipped to collect oceanographic and geophysical data, serving both defence and civil applications.
• Defence Capabilities: In its secondary role, Sandhayak has limited defence capabilities, contributing to the overall security architecture. It can function as a Hospital ship during times of war or emergencies, showcasing its versatility in different operational scenarios.

Features

• Sandhayak has a displacement of about 3400 tons, indicating its substantial size and capacity.
• The vessel measures 110 meters in overall length, providing ample space for the installation of advanced survey equipment and technology.
• Fitted with state-of-the-art hydrographic equipment, including a Data Acquisition and Processing System, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, and Remotely Operated Vehicle, Sandhayak is well-equipped to handle complex survey tasks.
• Powered by two Diesel Engines, the ship is capable of achieving speeds in excess of 18 knots, ensuring agility and efficiency during operations.
• Sandhayak boasts an indigenous content of over 80% by cost, underscoring the commitment to self-reliance and the utilization of domestic expertise and resources in naval construction.