The Indian Navy recent initiatives underscore its strategic focus on enhancing submarine rescue capabilities and bolstering its presence in the Indo-Pacific region. In a significant move, the Navy has unveiled its state-of-the-art Diving Support Vessels (DSVs), indigenously designed and constructed to cater to deep-sea diving operations and submarine rescue missions. India’s self-reliance will help strengthen maritime security and aid friendly nations with these warships.
Indian Navy Cutting-Edge Diving Support Vessels
The Indian Navy’s DSVs christened “Nistar” and “Nipun,” are the first-of-their-kind ships built entirely within the country. Constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, these vessels boast an impressive length of 118.4 meters, a breadth of 22.8 meters, and a displacement of 9,350 tons. Designed as self-sustaining platforms capable of extended operations at sea, the DSVs are equipped with an array of advanced diving support systems and Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRVs).
Capabilities and Features
- Submarine Rescue Operations: The DSVs’ primary function is to undertake submarine rescue operations at depths of up to 1,000 meters. In the event of a distressed or sunken submarine, these vessels can swiftly locate and rescue survivors, providing a vital lifeline in critical situations.
- Deep-Sea Diving Support: Equipped with cutting-edge diving equipment, the DSVs facilitate deep-sea diving operations, enabling the Indian Navy to conduct underwater exploration, research, and maintenance tasks with greater efficiency and safety.
- Search and Rescue (SAR) Missions: Beyond their core functions, the DSVs can conduct search and rescue operations at sea, contributing to the Indian Navy’s overall maritime security and humanitarian efforts.
- Helicopter Operations: The vessels feature dedicated helicopter decks, which allow for seamless integration of rotary-wing assets and enhance the Navy’s operational flexibility.
Indigenous Production and Self-Reliance
Aligning with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, the DSVs were constructed with approximately 80% indigenous content. This remarkable achievement showcases the country’s technological prowess and bolsters its strategic self-sufficiency in the maritime domain. The project’s substantial cooperation with Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) created employment opportunities and strengthened the local industrial ecosystem.
Strengthening India’s Maritime Influence in the Indo-Pacific: Indian Navy
The introduction of the DSVs is a strategic move by the Indian Navy to enhance its influence and capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, where submarine operations by various military powers, including China, have risen. By offering its submarine rescue services to friendly nations, India aims to establish itself as a reliable partner and a regional maritime security provider.
Collaborative Agreements and Partnerships
- Singapore: India has already signed an “implementing agreement” with Singapore, enabling the two nations to cooperate in submarine rescue operations.
- Potential Partners: South Africa and Japan are interested in using India’s submarine rescue capabilities, demonstrating regional demand.
- Multinational Naval Exercise “Milan 2024”: The Indian Navy hosted the biennial multinational naval exercise, Milan NUM0, in Vishakhapatnam. This event provided a platform for showcasing the Indian Navy’s DSV capabilities to participating nations. Through this exercise, international partnerships and cooperation were further strengthened.
Rapid Response and Rescue Capabilities
Vikas Gautam, the Indian Navy’s DSRV captain, said DSRVs may find a sub 72–96 hours after a distress call. Assuring marine safety and security is the Navy’s top priority, and this rapid response capacity is proof of that.
Extending a Helping Hand: Rescue Missions and International Cooperation
The Indian Navy’s DSVs have demonstrated their utility and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. India’s DSRV rescued the Indonesian Navy submarine Nanggala-402 north of Bali in 2021, proving its willingness to support friends.
Future Expansion and Continued Growth
Recognizing the strategic importance of these capabilities, the Indian Navy has placed orders exceeding Rs. 20,000 crore (approximately $2.4 billion) with HSL to construct additional support vessels. HSL CMD Commodore Hemant Khatri expects more ships in the next years to boost Navy operational readiness.
Fostering Regional Cooperation and Maritime Security: Indian Navy
The Indian Navy’s submarine rescue and DSV deployment show its maritime and military capabilities. Indian assets to friendly neighbours and participation in multilateral exercises like “Milan 2024,” boost regional cooperation and Indo-Pacific maritime security.
Collaborative Efforts and Shared Responsibilities
- Multinational Naval Exercise “Milan 2024”: With over 50 participating nations, the event featured a large number of warships. Approximately 15 warships and one maritime patrol aircraft participated from friendly foreign countries. The Indian Navy showcased its commitment to international cooperation and interoperability through this event.
- Indian Naval Assets: The Indian Navy contributed 20 ships, including the aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, and nearly 50 aircraft, such as MiG 29K, LCA Tejas, and P8I, for active participation in the mega naval drill.
- Shared Responsibilities: India is extending its submarine rescue capabilities to friendly nations. By doing so, India demonstrates its willingness to share responsibilities and contribute to the collective maritime security of the region. This action fosters trust and strengthens regional partnerships.
The Indian Navy’s purchase of Diving Support Vessels strengthens its submarine rescue capabilities and presence in the Indo-Pacific. These self-made warships strengthen India’s marine security and position it as a reliable aid partner for friendly nations. The Indian Navy submarine rescue services and regional collaboration help ensure maritime safety and security, reinforcing its standing as a responsible naval force in the Indo-Pacific.
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