Is Nistar India’s first indigenous diving support vessel a game-changer for Defence?
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Synopsis
Discover how India has taken a monumental step in enhancing its naval capabilities with the launch of the INS Nistar, the first indigenous diving support vessel. Crafted with 75% local content, this vessel not only signifies self-reliance but also embodies cutting-edge engineering in the maritime sector. Explore its advanced capabilities and strategic importance!
Key Takeaways
- INS Nistar is India's first indigenous Diving Support Vessel.
- It has an impressive 75% indigenous content.
- Designed for deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations.
- Equipped with advanced diving systems, allowing saturation diving up to 300 metres.
- Enhances India’s sub-surface operational capabilities.
New Delhi, July 9 (NationPress) In a remarkable advancement towards self-sufficiency in Defence, the Indian Navy proudly accepts its inaugural indigenously-designed and constructed Diving Support Vessel (DSV) — INS Nistar — from Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) situated in Visakhapatnam.
With an impressive 75 percent indigenous content, INS Nistar stands as a testament to Aatmanirbhar Bharat within the maritime sector.
On July 8, the vessel was officially handed over to the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, crafted in accordance with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification criteria, highlighting the pinnacle of Indian engineering and the Navy's unwavering commitment to enhancing domestic capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Stretching to 118 metres and displacing around 10,000 tonnes, Nistar is adept at conducting deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations — a specialized ability that only a few navies across the globe can boast.
Named after the Sanskrit term ‘Nistar’, which translates to liberation or rescue, the vessel is outfitted with sophisticated diving systems that facilitate saturation diving up to 300 metres, along with a side diving stage for missions reaching 75 metres.
Crucially, this vessel is engineered to function as the ‘Mother Ship’ for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), ensuring rapid personnel evacuation and submarine rescue during underwater crises.
To bolster intricate underwater missions, Nistar is equipped with Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of performing diver monitoring and salvage operations at depths of up to 1,000 metres.
The introduction of Nistar significantly elevates the Navy’s sub-surface operational prowess, especially in the realms of submarine rescue and vital underwater recovery missions.
In addition to its operational capabilities, the vessel fortifies India’s Defence manufacturing landscape, merging indigenous shipbuilding expertise with strategic naval applications.
Point of View
The induction of INS Nistar marks a pivotal moment in India's Defence narrative. It encapsulates the nation's commitment to self-reliance and innovation in military capabilities, reflecting a robust partnership between the government and the maritime industry. This strategic advancement not only strengthens India’s naval force but also reinforces its position on the global stage.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of INS Nistar?
INS Nistar represents India's commitment to self-reliance in Defence, showcasing indigenous shipbuilding and advanced engineering capabilities.
What capabilities does Nistar have?
Nistar is equipped for deep-sea diving, submarine rescue operations, and includes advanced diving systems and Remotely Operated Vehicles.
How does Nistar contribute to Aatmanirbhar Bharat?
With 75% indigenous content, Nistar exemplifies the principles of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, fostering local manufacturing and technological development.
What is the role of Nistar in submarine rescue missions?
Nistar serves as the 'Mother Ship' for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel, facilitating quick personnel evacuation during underwater emergencies.
Where was INS Nistar built?
INS Nistar was constructed at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, India.
