INS Nistar Joins Indian Navy: Revolutionizing Indigenous Submarine Rescue Capabilities – Insights from Bharat

Visakhapatnam – The Indian Navy is set to boost its underwater capabilities with the new Diving Support Vessel (DSV), Nistar. The vessel will be commissioned on July 18, 2025, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, in a ceremony attended by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh. This event marks a major step towards India’s self-reliance in defense production.

A Commitment to Self-Reliance

Nistar, built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), exemplifies India’s push for Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance). It features over 80% indigenous materials and involved about 120 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in its construction. This collaboration shows the strength of India’s defense manufacturing sector and its aim to lessen reliance on foreign technologies.

Equipped with advanced technology, Nistar plays a key role in India’s maritime strategy, especially in the Indian Ocean Region, where it can enhance operational readiness underwater.

Continuing a Legacy

Nistar succeeds an earlier vessel of the same name, which was launched in 1971 after being acquired from the USSR. This new vessel honors its predecessor’s legacy of supporting submarine rescue operations. Nistar’s motto, ‘Surakshita Yatharthta Shauryam’—which translates to ‘Deliverance with Precision and Bravery’—highlights its mission to conduct deep-sea dives and rescue missions effectively.

Modern Features

Measuring about 120 meters and displacing over 10,000 tons, Nistar is a modern engineering feat. It includes a Dynamic Positioning System for precise positioning in tough sea conditions and features an advanced diving complex with various systems, such as Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and Side Scan SONAR. These tools enhance Nistar’s ability to tackle complex underwater missions.

As the ‘Mother Ship’ for deep-sea rescue, Nistar significantly strengthens the Indian Navy’s preparedness for submarine emergencies, equipped with a 15-ton subsea crane to assist in heavy underwater tasks.

Medical Facilities

Apart from diving capabilities, Nistar includes extensive medical facilities like an operation theater, intensive care unit, and hyperbaric medical support. These are crucial for ensuring the safety of divers and crew, especially during prolonged missions that can last over 60 days at sea.

Enhancing India’s Maritime Strategy

With its commissioning, Nistar is a substantial boost to India’s underwater operational abilities. The vessel will support vital rescue operations, safeguarding naval personnel and enhancing the nation’s maritime security. The Indian Navy is increasingly prepared to tackle new challenges in the Indian Ocean, a vital area for global commerce.

A Milestone in Defense Production

The construction of Nistar showcases India’s growing defense capabilities. The delivery of this vessel demonstrates the potential of Indian shipyards to create world-class naval platforms. The involvement of MSMEs also emphasizes the economic and innovative strength of local industries.

As the Navy continues to modernize, Nistar stands as proof of India’s commitment to self-reliance and technological growth. Its commissioning on July 18, 2025, will not only be a proud moment for the Navy but for the country, marking a significant chapter in India’s journey toward independence in defense production.

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