Launch of Nirdeshak - 2nd Survey Vessel (Large)

1. In Oct 2024, Nirdeshak, the 2^nd of the four Survey Vessels (Large) (SVL) being constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in collaboration with L&T Shipbuilding, was launched for the Indian Navy.
2. The ship is named after the former Nirdeshak, a naval survey vessel decommissioned in December 2014 after 32 years of service.
3. These are the largest survey vessels for the Indian Navy to be built in the country

About the SVL Ships

1. The 1^st ship of this class, Sandhayak, was launched in 2021.
2. These ships will replace the older Sandhayak-class survey vessels, equipped with modern hydrographic equipment for gathering oceanographic data.
3. Survey Vessel (Large) ships have a displacement of approximately 3,400 tons and accommodate 235 personnel.
4. The ships can operate at a cruising speed of 14 knots and reach a maximum speed of 18 knots.
5. Bow and Stern Thrusters are incorporated for improved maneuvering during shallow water survey operations.

1. Bow and stern thrusters are equipment used to propel (move) a vessel at low speed and to move it forward or backward, thus helping to maneuver boats, particularly when anchored or in shallow waters. 

6. The hulls (body of a ship) are constructed using DMR 249-A steel, developed domestically by the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL).

Capabilities and Roles

1. Each ship can carry four Survey Motor Boats and an integral helicopter. Their primary function is conducting coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys of ports and navigational channels.
2. They also collect oceanographic and geophysical data for both defense and civil applications.
3. These vessels can provide limited defense support and serve as hospital ships during emergencies.
4. It was built using ‘Integrated Construction’ technology.
5. It is propelled by two marine diesel engines combined with fixed-pitch propellers.

Practice Question: Consider the following statements about INS Nirdeshak:

1. It is the first in a series of four Survey Vessels (Large) built.
2. It was built by the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers.

Choose the incorrect statements:

 a) 1 only

 b) 2 only

 c) Both 1 and 2

 d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: a) 1 only

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