INS ‘Nistar’: Indian Navy’s Indigenous Diving Support Vessel Ready

INS ‘Nistar’: Indian Navy’s Indigenous Diving Support Vessel Ready

On 18 July 2025, the first locally made Diving Support Vessel (DSV) - Nistar was commissioned by the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam. Nistar has been constructed out of Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) with greater than 80 percent indigenous content to be used in deep-sea diving operation and submarine rescue works. The ship is equipped with modern diving equipment, hospitals and long-range endurance. It has heritage on the previous Soviet-based Nistar used between 1971 and 1991. This commissioning enhances maritime preparedness by India particularly in the Indian Ocean Region.

Context

• A state-of-the-art Diving Support Ship, Nistar will be commissioned in India, and this will be one giant step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and self-reliance in the navy. 
• Nistar is to improve the underwater rescue activity which is a dire necessity with an expanding number of submarines in the fleet.

Key Highlights for RAS Mains

Indigenous Construction

• Shipyard: Hindustan shipyard Limited constructed, Visakhapatnam.
• The indigenous content: More than 80%.
• Teaming: Engaged more than 120 MSMEs-a shot in arm in India defense manufacturing ecosystem.
• Aatmanirbharta symbol: In line with the national vision of home grown defense capacity.

Technical Specifications of Nistar

Underwater Tasks & Underwater Search and Recovery

• DSRV compatible
• Deep-sea diving Saturation Diving System
• Air Diving Unit
• Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
• Underwater imaging and navigation Side-Scan SONAR Side-Scan Sonar
• Treatment by decompression in Hyperbaric Medical Facility

Strategy Deployment and Operational Role

• Posted As: Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam
• Main Roles:
  • Under-water rescue efforts
  • Sub sea exploration and recovery
  • Support and Offshore logistics
• Strategic Importance: Strengths India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and improves the status of maritime security in the region.

Connection Legacy

• A Soviet-developed submarine rescue ship (1971-1991) bore the name Nistar.
• New Motto Surakshita Yatharthta Shauryam meaning: Deliverance with Accuracy and Courage
• Symbolises follow-up of Indian devotion towards underwater safety and operational best practice.

Strategic Significance

Conclusion for RPSC

Induction into the Indian Navy of DSV Nistar is a milestone of the Indian Navy and the manufacturing capability of the Indian defense industry. It would not only fill the burning hole in submarine rescue and underwater operation but also depict India as a strategic independent player in the maritime aspect. Being a source of strength among indigenous people, Nistar will boost the Indian presence in the Indian Ocean and promote maritime diplomacy and security