India Launches Advanced Ocean Research Vessel ORV Sagar Manthan

India launched the Ocean Research Vessel ORV Sagar Manthan (Yard 3041) on 09 September 2026 at the Rishi Bankim Shipyard in Kolkata. The vessel was designed, engineered and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Ocean Research Vessel

An ocean research vessel is a specialised ship used for marine scientific surveys, oceanographic observations and deep-sea operations. ORV Sagar Manthan is 89.5 metres long and has been built for operation in extreme environments, including the Southern Ocean.

Deep Ocean Mission Linkage

The vessel has been constructed under Vertical-4, titled Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration, of the Government of India’s Deep Ocean Mission. The project cost is about Rs. 840 crore, and the vessel has a projected service life of 30 years.

Scientific Capabilities and Equipment

ORV Sagar Manthan is equipped for deep-sea mineral exploration, subsea oil and gas seismic surveys, seabed sampling, and deployment of autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles. These functions place it in the category of multidisciplinary oceanographic research platforms used for marine geology, resource assessment and underwater operations.

Important Facts for Exams

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited is a public sector shipbuilding company based in Kolkata.
• The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• The Deep Ocean Mission is a Government of India initiative linked to ocean exploration and marine resource studies.
• ORV Sagar Kanya, the vessel being replaced, was procured from Germany in 1983 and has completed 43 years of service.

Replacement of ORV Sagar Kanya

ORV Sagar Manthan will gradually replace ORV Sagar Kanya, India’s multidisciplinary oceanographic research vessel. ORV Sagar Kanya was originally procured from Germany in 1983 and served for 43 years.