India marked another significant step in defence indigenisation today with the commissioning of INS NISTAR, the Indian Navy’s first indigenously built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at Visakhapatnam. The ceremony was presided over by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, in the presence of Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, and other senior naval officials.
Designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, INS NISTAR embodies India’s capability to deliver technologically sophisticated naval vessels matching international standards. Over 120 MSMEs participated in the ship’s construction, resulting in more than 80% indigenous content, highlighting the nation’s steadfast march towards Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing.
The 120-metre long vessel displaces upwards of 10,500 tons and is equipped with a specialised multi-deck diving complex that supports advanced saturation diving operations. INS NISTAR further augments its deep-sea rescue capabilities with cutting-edge Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), enabling precise intervention missions. As a dedicated mothership for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs), the ship is uniquely positioned to execute rescue and evacuation missions involving distressed submarines.
INS NISTAR’s commissioning highlights India’s strategic commitment to strengthening its underwater operational prowess, significantly bolstering maritime safety and rescue capabilities within the Indian Navy.
