Indian Navy Commissions INS Nipun, Boosting Underwater Rescue Capabilities

The Indian Navy formally inducted INS Nipun into service at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, on 31 August 2026. The second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) of the Nistar Class, the ship was commissioned by Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, in the presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command.

Built indigenously by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, INS Nipun is designed for deep-sea diving and underwater intervention. The vessel supports saturation, air, and heliox diving, and carries remotely operated underwater systems for inspection tasks. Its specialised diving complex, dynamic positioning, and life-support facilities allow for sustained operations at sea.

The ship is also equipped to support submarine rescue missions, complementing its sister vessel INS Nistar. Together, they significantly enhance the Navy's capabilities in underwater salvage, intervention, and rescue operations. The induction underscores India's progress in constructing complex naval platforms indigenously, marking a step towards self-reliance in defence shipbuilding.

Speaking at the ceremony, Admiral Swaminathan highlighted the synergy between the Navy, HSL, and domestic industry. He noted that the successful proving of all diving systems during sea trials in a single sortie reflects the nation's technical confidence. He also emphasised the ship's role in positioning India as a preferred submarine rescue partner in the region, capable of responding to contingencies involving both Indian and partner-nation submarines.

The ship's motto, 'Far Beneath, Few Beyond', and its crest reflect the demanding nature of deep-sea operations. With the hoisting of the Commissioning Pennant, INS Nipun has entered operational service, ready to support underwater missions and contribute to safeguarding India's maritime interests.