The Indian Navy has inducted its second indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV) ‘Nipun’, further strengthening its capabilities in deep-sea diving, underwater rescue and specialised maritime operations.
Built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), the advanced vessel was delivered to the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam on July 30, 2026. Designed and constructed in accordance with the classification rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ‘Nipun’ represents another significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence shipbuilding.
Named after the Sanskrit word ‘Nipun’, meaning skilled, capable and proficient in a particular discipline, the vessel reflects its specialised role in supporting complex underwater missions.
The DSV is equipped with state-of-the-art diving systems and is capable of conducting Deep Sea Saturation Diving Operations, enabling divers to undertake extended underwater missions at significant depths. The vessel is also fitted with a side diving stage for specialised diving operations.
Enhancing its underwater capabilities, ‘Nipun’ carries Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) that support diver monitoring, underwater inspection and salvage operations. The vessel will also serve as a mother ship for the Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), providing critical support during submarine emergencies and enabling evacuation of personnel from distressed submarines.
The induction of ‘Nipun’ marks an important advancement in the Indian Navy’s specialised underwater warfare and rescue capabilities. With nearly 75 per cent indigenous content, the vessel reflects the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and highlights the growing strength of India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The commissioning of the vessel is expected to significantly enhance the Navy’s operational readiness in the challenging domain of deep-sea diving and submarine rescue support, reinforcing India’s maritime security capabilities.
