Indian Navy to Commission First Indigenous Diving Support Vessel ‘Nistar’
The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its operational capabilities with the commissioning of the Diving Support Vessel (DSV) Nistar, scheduled for July 18, 2025, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. The event will be graced by the Honorable Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh. This state-of-the-art vessel, designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, represents a significant step towards self-reliance in defense production, with over 80% of its components sourced from Indian manufacturers. The DSV will play a crucial role in deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations, reinforcing India’s maritime security.
Significance of the Nistar
The commissioning of the Nistar is a landmark event for the Indian Navy, symbolizing the government’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production, known as Aatmanirbharta. This project involved the collaboration of 120 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), showcasing India’s growing capabilities in indigenous defense manufacturing. The DSV is not just a new vessel; it continues the legacy of its predecessor, the ex-Nistar, which served the Indian Navy from 1971 to 1991. The motto of the new Nistar, “Surakshita Yatharthta Shauryam,” translates to “Deliverance with Precision and Bravery,” reflecting its vital roles in maritime operations.
Advanced Features and Capabilities
The Nistar measures approximately 120 meters in length and displaces over 10,000 tons. It is equipped with a Dynamic Positioning System, allowing it to maintain its position with remarkable accuracy. The vessel boasts an extensive diving complex that includes both Air and Saturation Diving Systems, along with underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and Side Scan SONAR. These features significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy, particularly in submarine rescue missions. As the ‘Mother Ship’ for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DRV), the Nistar will bolster the Navy’s preparedness for underwater emergencies.
Medical and Operational Readiness
In addition to its diving capabilities, the Nistar is equipped with essential medical facilities, including an Operation Theatre, an Intensive Care Unit, an eight-bedded hospital, and Hyperbaric Medical Facilities. These amenities are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of personnel during operations. The vessel’s endurance of over 60 days at sea, combined with its capacity for helicopter operations and a 15-ton subsea crane, makes it a versatile platform for various maritime missions.
Strategic Implications for India
The induction of the Nistar into the Eastern Naval Command is expected to significantly enhance India’s operational readiness in the underwater domain. This development not only strengthens the Indian Navy’s capabilities but also reinforces India’s strategic posture in the Indian Ocean Region. As maritime security becomes increasingly vital, the Nistar will play a pivotal role in safeguarding national interests and enhancing regional stability.
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