Indian Navy’s INS Nistar: A Leap Toward Self-Reliance with Indigenous Diving Support Vessel
On July 18, 2025, the Indian Navy put into service INS Nistar, its first domestically designed and constructed Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone for India’s maritime capabilities. This milestone, which was commemorated in front of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, represents a turning point in India’s progress toward independence under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat program. INS Nistar, which has more than 80% indigenous content and 120 MSMEs’ contributions, is more than just a ship; it is a representation of India’s expanding defense manufacturing capacity. Discover the significance of this commissioning for the country’s naval power and why it is creating a stir.
INS was constructed in Visakhapatnam by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). Nistar, which translates to “rescue” or “salvation” in Sanskrit, is a 118-meter-long ship that can carry more than 10,000 tons. With state-of-the-art equipment, it can conduct 300-meter deep-sea saturation dives and serve as a “Mother Ship” for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs), assisting with submarine rescue missions. It is one of the most advanced naval assets in the world thanks to its sophisticated systems, which include a 15-ton subsea crane, a dynamic positioning system, and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) for operations up to 1,000 meters. The ship’s role in military and humanitarian missions, including disaster response in the Indian Ocean Region, is further enhanced by its onboard hospital, hyperbaric chambers, and helicopter capabilities.
With the commissioning of INS Nistar, the legacy of its predecessor—a Soviet-acquired ship that served from 1971 to 1989 and was instrumental in locating the Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi during the Indo-Pak War in 1971—is revived. With its motto “Surakshita Yatharthta Shauryam” (Deliverance with Precision and Bravery), the new Nistar upholds this honorable tradition while demonstrating India’s capacity to construct sophisticated warships on its own soil. Public pride was reflected in posts on X, where users praised the ship as a “game-changer” for India’s maritime security and a demonstration of the Make in India initiative.
By enhancing the Eastern Naval Command’s underwater capabilities, this move establishes India as the Indo-Pacific region’s “Preferred Submarine Rescue Partner.” The 60-day sea endurance and adaptable capabilities of INS Nistar guarantee India’s preparedness to respond to underwater emergencies and establish its strategic presence as geopolitical tensions in the area increase. The cooperation that propels India’s defense ecosystem is demonstrated by the participation of MSMEs and adherence to Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) regulations.
INS Nistar is more than just a naval asset; it is a symbol of India’s independence, inventiveness, and dedication to defending its maritime interests. This vessel encourages us to honor domestic excellence as the country’s reputation grows internationally. How do you feel about India’s naval developments? Participate in the discussion and check back for more information on this life-changing adventure.
