The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Nipun, its second indigenous Diving Support Vessel designed for deep-sea diving and submarine rescue [1].
The addition of the vessel enhances India's ability to conduct underwater interventions and rescue operations. These capabilities are critical for maintaining maritime security and operational readiness within a contested maritime environment [2, 3].
Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, the vessel was delivered and commissioned on July 30, 2024 [1, 4]. Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan led the ceremony. While delivery occurred at the Visakhapatnam shipyard, reports indicate the vessel was commissioned in Mumbai [0, 5].
INS Nipun serves as the second vessel of its kind produced domestically [1]. The ship is equipped to support complex underwater tasks, including the deployment of divers, and the management of deep-submergence rescue equipment. This indigenous production reduces reliance on foreign naval architecture for specialized support ships [1, 2].
The vessel's operational scope includes underwater intervention and the ability to assist submarines in distress. By expanding its fleet of Diving Support Vessels, the Navy aims to bolster its deep-sea reach and ensure a more robust response to underwater emergencies [2, 3].
Hindustan Shipyard Limited's role in the project highlights the ongoing effort to increase domestic shipbuilding. The delivery of INS Nipun follows a strategic push to integrate more home-grown technology into the Navy's specialized fleet [0, 4].
“INS Nipun is the second indigenous Diving Support Vessel for the Indian Navy”
The commissioning of INS Nipun signifies a strategic shift toward naval self-reliance in specialized maritime operations. By developing indigenous deep-sea diving and rescue capabilities, India reduces its dependence on international partners for critical submarine safety infrastructure, which is essential for projecting power and ensuring security in the Indian Ocean Region.
