The Indian Navy has welcomed a new addition to its fleet: the INS Nistar, its first indigenously designed Diving Support Vessel (DSV). This milestone came from Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam on July 9, 2025.
With about 75% of its components made in India, Nistar underscores the Navy’s commitment to building a self-reliant defense force, aligning with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. This focus on local manufacturing is vital, especially in the wake of global supply chain challenges we see today.
Nistar is not just any ship. It’s specially equipped for deep-sea diving and rescue operations, capabilities that only a few navies worldwide possess. The name “Nistar” comes from Sanskrit, meaning liberation or rescue, which perfectly reflects its mission. The vessel is 118 meters long and weighs around 10,000 tonnes, making it a substantial addition to the Navy’s resources.
Equipped with cutting-edge diving gear, Nistar can perform deep-sea saturation diving up to 300 meters. It also includes a Side Diving Stage for operations up to 75 meters, enhancing its diving capabilities. This ship will act as a “Mother Ship” for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), crucial in emergencies involving submarines.
Remarkably, Nistar features Remotely Operated Vehicles, which allow it to conduct diver monitoring and salvage operations at depths of up to 1,000 meters. This advancement not only improves operational efficiency but also showcases India’s technological growth in naval capabilities.
Experts believe that ships like Nistar are game-changers for national security. According to a recent report from the Ministry of Defence, investing in indigenous technology bolsters both defense readiness and economic growth. As nations increasingly prioritize self-sufficiency, Nistar sets a precedent for future naval projects in India.
Overall, the INS Nistar not only symbolizes India’s growing maritime strength but also illustrates an important shift towards self-reliance in defense. This ship is more than a vessel; it represents a vision for the future of India’s naval prowess.
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