Indian Naval Ship Sandhayak arrived at Changi Naval Base on the historic occasion of Singapore’s National Day. This three-day visit marks a major step in deepening India-Singapore maritime relations and boosting hydrographic cooperation in the region.
A Symbol of Maritime Friendship
The INS Sandhayak, India’s first indigenous Survey Vessel Large (SVL), was commissioned in February 2024 in the presence of the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri. Built with state-of-the-art hydrographic technology, the vessel can conduct full-scale coastal and deep-water surveys. It also supports search and rescue (SAR) operations, humanitarian missions, and medical support through its onboard hospital facilities and helicopter operations.
Its visit to Singapore is more than ceremonial. It reflects India’s growing leadership in maritime diplomacy and commitment to regional security. The Indian Navy’s Hydrographic Department continues to lead efforts in capacity building and cooperation across Asia.
Hydrography plays a vital role in safe navigation and maritime trade. Both India and Singapore rely heavily on precise nautical charts and advanced marine mapping for their busy ports. According to the Indian Navy, this visit aims to facilitate technical and professional exchanges between hydrographic experts from both nations.
During the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Sandhayak will call on Mr. Gary Chew, Assistant Chief Hydrographer of Singapore, and Colonel Chauah Meng Soon, Commander of the 9th Flotilla of the Royal Singapore Navy. These meetings are expected to pave the way for future collaborations in hydrographic surveys, charting, and training.
Engaging with the Singaporean Community
Beyond official meetings, the visit includes cultural and educational engagements. Royal Singapore Navy personnel will tour INS Sandhayak to witness its hydrographic capabilities. School children and families of the High Commission of India in Singapore will also get a rare opportunity to step onboard.
Such outreach programs strengthen people-to-people ties and showcase India’s indigenous naval achievements. They also inspire young minds to consider careers in maritime science and naval service.
India’s Maritime Diplomacy in Action
This visit is part of a broader Indian Navy initiative to enhance regional maritime cooperation. In recent years, India has expanded its presence in Southeast Asian waters through joint exercises, coordinated patrols, and hydrographic support missions.
Singapore, as a strategic partner in ASEAN, plays a central role in maintaining freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific. The visit of INS Sandhayak on Singapore’s National Day sends a strong message of friendship, trust, and shared responsibility.
Why This Visit Matters
- It reinforces India’s commitment to safe maritime navigation through advanced hydrography.
- It opens new opportunities for joint surveys, training, and technology sharing.
- It boosts people-to-people ties through cultural and educational activities.
- It showcases India’s indigenous shipbuilding capability to the world.
- It contributes to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Looking Ahead
The Indian Navy’s Hydrographic Department has been instrumental in assisting friendly nations with charting, survey data sharing, and training. Future collaborations with Singapore may include joint surveys in strategically important waters and knowledge exchange programs for hydrographic officers.
By blending operational cooperation with cultural exchange, the visit of INS Sandhayak is a shining example of how navies can build trust and strengthen regional partnerships.