Is INS Nistar a Technological Asset and Operational Enabler?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
INS Nistar, India's first indigenous diving support vessel, has been commissioned, marking a significant step in naval capabilities. With advanced technology and a focus on indigenous content, it positions India as a leader in submarine rescue operations and strengthens regional security partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- INS Nistar is India's first indigenous diving support vessel.
- Commissioned on July 18 in Visakhapatnam.
- Equipped for advanced deep-sea saturation diving and rescue operations.
- Showcases India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
- Strengthens India's role as a regional security partner.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) INS Nistar, the inaugural vessel of its kind designed and constructed in India for diving support, was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, with the presence of Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.
This vessel is the first of two diving support ships being developed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited and is specifically engineered for advanced deep-sea saturation diving and rescue operations—a capability that only a select few navies worldwide possess.
The MoS praised the Indian Navy and the indigenous shipbuilding sector for their relentless efforts in augmenting the indigenous content in warships through innovative technologies and homegrown solutions. He stated that the commissioning of INS Nistar strongly underscores the Indian Navy's status as the 'First Responder' and 'Preferred Security Partner' in the region.
Expressing confidence in the Armed Forces' capabilities, he emphasized India's unwavering commitment to addressing any form of adversarial misadventure, highlighting the induction of INS Nistar as a significant technological advancement and a landmark in India's shipbuilding journey towards a future-ready military.
During the ceremony, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi described INS Nistar as not merely a technological asset but as a vital operational enabler.
"Nistar will deliver essential submarine rescue support to both the Indian Navy and our regional allies. This positions India as a 'Preferred Submarine Rescue Partner' in the region. The commissioning of Nistar showcases the enhancing capabilities and maturity of our maritime industrial sector and stands as a prominent example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat," the Naval Chief remarked.
INS Nistar is equipped with cutting-edge diving technologies, including remotely operated vehicles, self-propelled hyperbaric life boats, and diving compression chambers.
It is capable of conducting diving and salvage operations at depths of up to 300 meters, serving as the 'Mother Ship' for deep submergence rescue vessels to assist in rescuing personnel from distressed submarines submerged well below the surface.
The commissioning of this 118-meter-long vessel, with a displacement exceeding 10,000 tons, reflects the Indian Navy's commitment to continuously enhancing its capabilities within the underwater domain.
Incorporating contributions from 120 MSMEs and boasting over 80% indigenous content, INS Nistar exemplifies India's capacity to construct complex vessels that meet international standards.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the strategic importance of INS Nistar in enhancing India's maritime capabilities. This vessel represents not just technological advancement, but a commitment to national security and regional stability. The emphasis on indigenous manufacturing aligns with India's vision of self-reliance, fostering confidence in our defense establishments.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is INS Nistar?
INS Nistar is India's first indigenously designed and built diving support vessel, commissioned to enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities in deep-sea operations.
What are the key features of INS Nistar?
INS Nistar is equipped with advanced diving equipment, including remotely operated vehicles and hyperbaric life boats, capable of conducting operations at depths of 300 meters.
Who commissioned INS Nistar?
INS Nistar was commissioned by the Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, in Visakhapatnam.
How does INS Nistar contribute to regional security?
By providing submarine rescue capabilities, INS Nistar positions India as a preferred partner in regional maritime security operations.
What is the significance of indigenous content in INS Nistar?
With over 80% indigenous content, INS Nistar showcases India's ability to develop advanced military technology and supports the country's self-reliance initiative.
