Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) has secured a major contract to build two coastal research vessels (CRVs) for the Geological Survey of India (GSI). The award marks a major step forward in India’s efforts to enhance domestic marine research capabilities through indigenous shipbuilding.

The contract, valued at approximately Rs 5.9 billion covers the design, construction and delivery of two advanced 62-metre vessels. GRSE is expected to complete the project within 36 months, as part of its expanding portfolio of mission-specific vessels.

Each vessel will be powered by diesel-electric propulsion and designed for extended offshore operations. They will come equipped with onboard laboratories, advanced navigation systems, multi-beam echo sounders, dynamic positioning capabilities, and accommodation for scientific personnel. The crafts are expected to operate at sea for around 270 days each year, with a minimum service life of 30 years.

This addition furthers GRSE’s reputation as a diversified shipyard capable of delivering military and scientific vessels, complementing its previous contracts for ocean research vessels and acoustic survey ships. With this order, GRSE continues to support India’s focus on enhancing maritime domain awareness, coastal exploration, and resource assessment.

This award underlines India’s growing self-reliance in marine infrastructure and supports national-level research aimed at understanding coastal and oceanic ecosystems.