Indian Navy to commission second Nistar-class Diving Support Vessel Nipun on Aug 31
New Delhi, Aug 25. The Indian Navy will commission Nipun, the second Nistar-class Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on August 31, strengthening its capabilities for deep-sea diving, underwater intervention and submarine rescue operations.
The induction of the specialised vessel will expand the Navy’s ability to undertake complex underwater missions and provide sustained support to divers operating in challenging maritime conditions.
Designed and built domestically by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, Nipun is part of India’s efforts to develop advanced naval platforms through indigenous shipbuilding. The vessel was handed over to the Navy on July 30 after completing outfitting work and a comprehensive programme of trials, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on August 25.
Nipun has been purpose-built for a range of diving and underwater operations. It is equipped with modern diving systems and underwater intervention capabilities and will also strengthen the Navy’s ability to assist in submarine rescue missions.
The vessel incorporates advanced navigation and platform-management systems, along with precise station-keeping capabilities. Specialised diving, underwater intervention and medical facilities allow it to operate as an integrated platform for missions below the sea surface.
The Navy’s induction of Nipun is expected to enhance its capacity to conduct specialised diving and underwater operations across India’s maritime areas of interest.
The vessel’s construction also highlights the growing capabilities of India’s domestic shipbuilding sector to design and manufacture technologically advanced and specialised naval platforms for the armed forces.
