New Delhi, 25 August (H.S.): The Indian Navy is set to commission Nipun, the second Nistar-class Diving Support Vessel (DSV), into its fleet on August 31 at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The induction of the vessel will significantly enhance the Navy’s deep-sea diving and underwater support capabilities, marking a new chapter in its journey from construction to operational service.

Designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, Nipun represents a significant milestone in India’s drive towards self-reliance in defence shipbuilding. The vessel was delivered to the Indian Navy on July 30, 2026, following the completion of an extensive outfitting and trials programme. It is a purpose-built platform designed to support a wide range of diving and underwater operations.

The vessel is equipped with advanced diving systems and underwater intervention capabilities, enabling it to provide sustained support to divers operating in challenging maritime environments. It will also strengthen the Navy’s ability to undertake submarine rescue operations.

Nipun features modern systems for navigation, platform management and precise station-keeping, along with specialised facilities for diving, underwater intervention and medical support. These capabilities enable the vessel to function as an integrated platform for complex operations beneath the surface.

The commissioning of Nipun will further strengthen the Navy’s specialised diving and underwater mission capabilities across India’s maritime areas. The induction of the indigenously built platform also reflects the growing capabilities of India’s shipbuilding ecosystem to develop technologically advanced and specialised vessels tailored to meet the operational requirements of the armed forces.

Navy Captain Vivek Madhwal said the crest displayed on the vessel represents its primary role as a Diving Support Vessel, as well as the courage, endurance and professional expertise associated with deep-sea diving.

The modern diving helmet featured on the crest symbolises the vessel’s advanced diving systems and life-support capabilities, which will enable divers to operate safely and effectively at considerable depths. The whale and diving helmet together portray Nipun as a platform committed to taking divers into the depths, sustaining them during underwater operations and bringing them safely back to the surface.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar