On July 9, 2025, the Indian Navy welcomed INS Nistar, the first indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV) designed and built in India by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam. This vessel will enhance the Navy’s capabilities for deep sea diving and rescue missions, marking a significant stride for the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
Built in India for Deep Sea Operations
- INS Nistar is entirely crafted in India with approximately 75% local content, adhering to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) regulations, showcasing India’s prowess in constructing advanced warships.
- The name “Nistar” originates from Sanskrit, signifying rescue or salvation. The vessel is 118 meters long, weighs about 10,000 tonnes, and is equipped with state-of-the-art diving gear.
- It can conduct saturation dives up to 300 meters and features a side diving stage for dives up to 75 meters.
Advanced Rescue and Support Abilities
- INS Nistar serves as a “Mother Ship” for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), aiding in underwater submarine rescue operations.
- The ship houses Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of diving up to 1000 meters, supporting divers and facilitating underwater salvage tasks.
- This cutting-edge deep-sea support capability is a rarity, placing the Indian Navy among the elite navies globally for enhanced emergency responsiveness.
Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance
- The commissioning of INS Nistar signifies a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing, bolstering the Navy’s underwater prowess and aligning with the nation’s naval modernization strategies.
- The vessel aligns seamlessly with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India vision, underscoring the government’s commitment to indigenous production and technological advancement.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- INS Nistar, India’s first indigenous Diving Support Vessel, was launched on July 9, 2025, by the Indian Navy.
- The vessel, built entirely in India with significant local content, enhances the Navy’s deep sea rescue capabilities.
- INS Nistar’s advanced features include the ability to conduct saturation dives up to 300 meters and support dives up to 75 meters.
- The vessel’s role as a “Mother Ship” for the DSRV and its advanced ROVs bolster India’s emergency response capabilities.
- The launch of INS Nistar signifies a significant milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defense production and naval modernization.
