In a significant step towards enhancing self-reliance in defense, the Indian Navy has officially commissioned INS Nistar, the first-ever indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), during a formal ceremony in Visakhapatnam. The event was presided over by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, who described the vessel as a “technological leap” that fortifies India’s position as the region’s ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner.’
Constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), INS Nistar stands as the first of two planned DSVs and is outfitted with state-of-the-art saturation diving and deep-sea rescue capabilities, which enable operations at depths of up to 300 meters. Its advanced features include Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Lifeboats (SPHLs), and Diving Compression Chambers, positioning it among a select few global naval assets equipped with such sophisticated functionality.
Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, praised INS Nistar not just as a technological marvel, but also as an essential operational facilitator. He emphasized that “Nistar will provide critical submarine rescue support not only to the Indian Navy but also to regional partners, helping India emerge as a ‘Preferred Submarine Rescue Partner’ in the Indo-Pacific.”
At 118 meters in length and displacing over 10,000 tons, INS Nistar will act as a mother ship for Deep Submergence Rescue Vessels (DSRVs), which are pivotal for the safe evacuation of submarine crews in distress deep under the ocean.
The construction of the vessel demonstrates a focused effort towards indigenization, with over 80% of its components sourced locally and contributions from 120 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The commissioning of INS Nistar underscores the growing capabilities of India’s maritime industrial base and reflects the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision in the defense sector.
During his address, Sanjay Seth acknowledged the Indian Navy and the shipbuilding ecosystem for their dedication to innovation and the development of indigenous capabilities. He reiterated India’s preparedness to address any threats, emphasizing the vital role this vessel will play in protecting regional maritime interests.
The ceremony witnessed attendance from senior naval officials, veteran crew members of the previous Nistar, representatives from HSL, as well as notable civilian dignitaries, all commemorating the induction of a ship that significantly boosts India’s underwater operational reach and resilience.
