[1][3][4][5] Mhadei was built to a stock design by van de Stadt called Tonga 56[6] measuring 56 feet in length and displacing 23 tons.

She is also fitted with satellite communications, electronic navigation systems and a Monitor windvane equipped for emergency steering.

[5] In 2012, Mhadei was used by Indian Navy Lt Cdr Abhilash Tomy to complete a single-handed, unassisted, non-stop circumnavigation under sail.

[1][5][9][10][11] In 2013, the navy's first all female team of sailors began preparation for another circumnavigation of the world, led by Lieutenant Commander Shweta Kapur.

[12][13][14] In May 2016 INSV Mhadei set sail from Goa for a voyage to Port Louis in Mauritius skippered by Lt. Cdr.