SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
On September 7, 2023, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha member G.V.L. Narasimha Rao paid a visit to Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) for discussions with its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), Cmde Hemant Khatri (retired). During their meeting, the backdrop featured the ongoing development of the second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) named “Nipun,” being constructed at Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Visakhapatnam. This visit comes a year after the launch of the first DSV, “Nistar,” on September 22, 2022, in Visakhapatnam.
The Diving Support Vessels, “Nistar” and “Nipun,” are equipped with a comprehensive array of complex Diving Support systems and a Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV). These vessels are designed to be deployed for deep-sea diving and submarine rescue operations, making them a critical asset for the Indian Navy. Additionally, they possess the capability to conduct Search and Rescue operations and facilitate Helicopter Operations at sea.
A notable achievement is that “Nistar” and “Nipun” were launched with approximately 80% indigenous content, marking a significant stride toward achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The DSV project has not only contributed to the development of local employment opportunities but has also promoted indigenization, which is expected to have a positive impact on India’s economy.
While “Nistar” was showcased as nearly ready during its launch last year, the latest images reveal significant progress on the “Nipun.” However, it is anticipated that “Nipun” will not be ready for deployment until at least the end of this year.
These Diving Support Vessels are a pioneering achievement as they are the first of their kind, designed and constructed indigenously at HSL for the Indian Navy. Measuring 118.4 meters in length, 22.8 meters at the broadest point, and boasting a displacement of 9,350 tons, these vessels represent a remarkable technological advancement in India’s maritime capabilities.
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