India's First Manned Deep Ocean Mission 'Samudrayaan' Set for 2026
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mission Name | Samudrayaan |
| Launch Year | 2026 |
| Submersible Vehicle | MATSYA 6000 (indigenously developed) |
| Exploration Depth | Up to 6,000 meters |
| Crew Capacity | 3 members |
| Operational Endurance | 12 hours (emergency endurance up to 96 hours) |
| Research Vessel | Sagar Nidhi (for deployment and recovery) |
| Aim | Deep ocean exploration, marine biodiversity, and resource potential study |
| Objectives | - Deep-sea sample collection for scientific research<br>- Exploration of living and non-living marine resources<br>- Demonstrate advanced engineering capabilities<br>- Strengthen India's position in global ocean research |
| Budget | ₹4,077 crore (part of Deep Ocean Mission, 2021) |
| Implementing Agency | National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai |
| Alignment | Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-14 (Life Below Water) |
| Strategic Importance | Enhances India's position in ocean diplomacy and global maritime research |
| International Standing | Joins countries like the US, Russia, France, Japan, and China in manned deep-sea exploration |