The Indian Navy is set to commission the Diving Support Vessel (DSV) ‘Nistar’ at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, on July 18. The Defence Minister will be present. The ship was designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam, and upon commissioning will be part of the Eastern Naval Command. It will support deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations.
This project exemplifies the Indian government’s dedication to self-reliance in defense and ‘Aatmanirbharta.’ Around 120 MSMEs contributed to its construction, with over 80% indigenous content. The project contributes to the Indian Navy’s vision of developing indigenous platforms. The ship’s motto is ‘Surakshita Yatharthta Shauryam,’ meaning ‘Deliverance with Precision and Bravery,’ reflecting its primary responsibilities. The DSV is about 120 meters in length, has a displacement of over 10,000 tons, and uses a Dynamic Positioning System for precise positioning.
‘Nistar’ features a comprehensive diving complex with Air and Saturation Diving Systems, ROVs, and Side Scan SONAR, significantly expanding its operational capabilities. Serving as the ‘Mother Ship’ for the DRV, the vessel enhances the Indian Navy’s submarine rescue preparedness. It also has an Operating Theatre, ICU, eight-bed Hospital, and Hyperbaric Medical Facilities. With an endurance of more than 60 days at sea, helicopter operation capabilities, and a 15-ton subsea crane, the ship is a versatile platform.
The commissioning of ‘Nistar’ will enhance India’s underwater operational preparedness and its strategic maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region. Its motto signifies its purpose and capabilities.