July 18, 2025: In a major boost to India’s maritime capabilities and indigenous shipbuilding prowess, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Nistar, the first of two Diving Support Vessels (DSVs), at Visakhapatnam on Friday. The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, and attended by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, along with other senior dignitaries.
INS Nistar, designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, is a landmark achievement in India’s mission for Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing. The vessel features over 80% indigenous content, with the participation of more than 120 MSMEs, showcasing India’s capability to construct complex naval platforms on par with global standards.
Key Features of INS Nistar:
- Displacement: Over 10,500 tons gross
- Length: Approx. 120 meters
- Width: Over 20 meters
- Primary Roles: Deep sea diving operations, submarine rescue, and underwater intervention
The vessel is equipped with a state-of-the-art diving complex, spread across multiple decks, specifically designed for saturation diving missions. Additionally, Nistar boasts Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and will serve as a Mothership for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), enabling it to conduct critical rescue operations for submarines in distress.
In his address, Minister Sanjay Seth hailed the commissioning as “a proud moment for India’s naval defence ecosystem,” emphasizing the strategic importance of self-reliant shipbuilding. Admiral Tripathi also praised the collaboration between the Navy and HSL in making Nistar a reality, affirming the Navy’s commitment to strengthening underwater capabilities.
The addition of INS Nistar significantly enhances India’s ability to respond to submarine emergencies and carry out deep-sea missions, adding strategic depth to its maritime assets.