India's Deep Sea: New Vessel Boosts Navy's Underwater Might

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Nipun, its second diving support vessel (DSV), significantly bolstering the Western Naval Command's underwater operational capacity. This specialized 9,000-tonne vessel, named after the Sanskrit word for adeptness, enhances deep-sea diving, underwater intervention, and vital submarine rescue capabilities.

INS Nipun is equipped with advanced dive systems, including saturation diving capabilities and Remotely Operated Vehicles, allowing divers to operate under pressure for extended periods in challenging environments. It also serves as a mothership for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV), crucial for evacuating crews from distressed submarines.

The vessel's commissioning reflects India's growing focus on maritime security and self-reliance in specialized naval assets. Previously, the navy relied on a mix of older vessels and shore facilities, which lacked the multidomain operational capabilities for long deployments. The construction of INS Nipun and its sister ship, INS Nistar, by Hindustan Shipyard Limited marks a significant step in indigenous shipbuilding and naval modernization.

With its modern navigation, platform management, and specialized diving and medical support facilities, INS Nipun is poised to undertake complex underwater missions, salvage operations, and emergency responses. Its induction is vital for maintaining underwater presence, supporting search-and-rescue operations, and providing submarine rescue assistance to regional partners, reinforcing India's strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region.