GRSE commences steel-cutting for advanced ocean research vessel

New Delhi: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited, a Defence Miniratna PSU, initiated the steel-cutting process for an Advanced Ocean Research Vessel (ORV) on Friday. This milestone marks the commencement of construction for the vessel, which is being built for the National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research (NCPOR). The contract for the ORV, valued at Rs 840 crore, was signed between GRSE and NCPOR on July 16, 2024.

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The steel-cutting ceremony, a significant event symbolizing the start of a shipbuilding project, was graced by Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, as the Chief Guest. Also, in attendance were GRSE CMD Cmde PR Hari, senior officials from GRSE, and representatives from NCPOR.

The ORV, once completed, will be 89.5 meters long, 18.8 meters wide, and 12.5 meters deep, with a gross tonnage of 5,900 tons. It is designed to achieve a speed of 14 knots at 90 percent maximum continuous rating (MCR) and operate at depths of up to 6,000 meters. This state-of-the-art vessel will be equipped to perform a range of scientific and research operations, including Underway Swath Multibeam and Geophysical Seismic Surveys for comprehensive mapping and analysis of oceanic regions. It will also enable advanced biological and water sampling using CTD profiling techniques and specialized nets for vertical and horizontal sampling.

Furthermore, the vessel will conduct seabed and atmospheric studies, including surface and deep-sea mooring, data buoy operations, coring, rock dredging, and atmospheric data collection. It will also support the deployment of submersibles such as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) for exploratory and research purposes, while providing scientists with facilities for onboard analytical work, data processing, and training.

GRSE has established itself as a leader in building specialized vessels, including survey ships for the Indian Navy and research ships for scientific missions.

Currently, the shipyard is managing 43 projects, including 17 warships of four classes, export orders, and 13 hybrid ferries for the Government of West Bengal. The ORV project further reinforces GRSE's position as a key contributor to India's maritime and defense sectors, aligning with the nation's vision of advancing oceanographic research and exploration.

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