INS Nistar: First Indigenously Designed and Constructed Diving Support Vessel

INS Nistar, the Indian Navy’s first indigenously designed and constructed Diving Support Vessel, was officially commissioned on July 18, 2025, in Visakhapatnam. The event was graced by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, who highlighted the significance of this vessel in enhancing India’s maritime capabilities. As the first of two such vessels being built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, INS Nistar is equipped for complex deep-sea saturation diving and rescue operations, a capability that only select navies worldwide possess.

Significance of INS Nistar

The commissioning of INS Nistar marks a pivotal moment for the Indian Navy and the indigenous shipbuilding sector. Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth praised the Indian Navy for its commitment to increasing indigenous content in warships through innovative technologies. He emphasized that the vessel reinforces the Navy’s role as a ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the region. This commissioning aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which aims to bolster self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Currently, all 57 new warships in the pipeline are being constructed within India, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in shipbuilding.

Technological Advancements and Operational Capabilities

INS Nistar is equipped with advanced diving technology, including Remotely Operated Vehicles, Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Life Boats, and Diving Compression Chambers. The vessel can conduct diving and salvage operations at depths of up to 300 meters. It will serve as a ‘Mother Ship’ for deep submergence rescue operations, capable of evacuating personnel from distressed submarines located deep underwater. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi described INS Nistar as not only a technological asset but also a crucial operational enabler. He noted that the vessel would provide essential submarine rescue support to the Indian Navy and its regional partners, positioning India as a ‘Preferred Submarine Rescue Partner’ in the area.

Commitment to Indigenous Shipbuilding

The 118-meter-long INS Nistar, with a displacement exceeding 10,000 tons, underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to enhancing its underwater capabilities. The vessel’s construction involved the participation of 120 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and boasts over 80% indigenous content. This achievement reflects India’s ability to build complex naval vessels that meet international standards. The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior naval officials, distinguished civilian dignitaries, the crew of the former Nistar, and representatives from Hindustan Shipyard Limited, all of whom celebrated this significant milestone in India’s maritime history.

Future Prospects

The induction of INS Nistar represents a technological leap for the Indian Navy and a significant step towards a future-ready force. As India continues to invest in its naval capabilities, the commissioning of this vessel is a testament to the country’s resolve to address any challenges posed by adversaries. The successful launch of INS Nistar not only enhances India’s maritime security but also strengthens its position as a leader in regional maritime operations. With ongoing advancements in shipbuilding technology, the Indian Navy is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring maritime safety and security in the years to come.

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