INS Nistar Joins Indian Navy: First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel Commissioned

In a significant development towards India's self-reliance in defense, the Indian Navy has officially inducted INS Nistar, its first Diving Support Vessel (DSV) designed and built domestically. The commissioning ceremony took place in Visakhapatnam, with Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth leading the event. He described the vessel as a "technological leap" that underscores India's role as the region's 'First Responder' and 'Preferred Security Partner.'

Manufactured by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), INS Nistar is the first of two planned DSVs. It boasts advanced saturation diving and deep-sea rescue capabilities, operating at depths up to 300 meters. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art systems, including Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboats (SPHLs), and Diving Compression Chambers, aligning it with a select group of global naval assets with similar capabilities.

Naval Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi emphasized the vessel's role not just as a technological tool, but as a critical operational asset. He noted, "Nistar will offer essential submarine rescue support to the Indian Navy and regional allies, aiding India in becoming a 'Preferred Submarine Rescue Partner' in the Indo-Pacific."

INS Nistar, measuring 118 meters in length and with a displacement exceeding 10,000 tons, will also support Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels (DSRVs). This capability is vital for rescuing submarine crews in distress deep underwater.

The vessel's construction marks a significant emphasis on domestic production, with over 80% of its components sourced locally and contributions from 120 MSMEs. The commissioning of INS Nistar showcases the growing capabilities of India's maritime industrial sector and reflects the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense.

During his address, Sanjay Seth praised the Indian Navy and the shipbuilding industry for their dedication to innovation and developing indigenous capabilities. He emphasized India's readiness to face any threats and highlighted the vessel’s importance in protecting regional maritime interests.

The event was attended by high-ranking naval officials, former crew members of the original Nistar, representatives from HSL, and civilian dignitaries, all gathered to celebrate the arrival of a vessel that significantly boosts India's underwater operational capacity and resilience.