INS Nipun Commissioned: Navy Chief Stresses Combat Readiness and Maritime Security
Mumbai, August 31, 2026: The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Nipun, its second indigenous Nistar-class Diving Support Vessel (DSV), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan presided over the commissioning ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Admiral Swaminathan highlighted the Navy’s focus on combat preparedness and maritime security.
«“Our unifying purpose is to build robust combat capability that safeguards India’s security and maritime interests.”»
He said the maritime environment is becoming increasingly contested. Threat perceptions are also changing rapidly.
The Navy chief stressed that India must remain prepared for emerging challenges. He said credible capabilities are needed to respond quickly and effectively.
INS Nipun Strengthens Underwater Operations
INS Nipun is designed for deep-sea diving and underwater intervention missions. It will also support submarine rescue operations.
The vessel will be based on India’s western coast. It will operate under the Western Naval Command.
Its induction strengthens India’s specialised underwater capabilities. It also gives the Navy greater operational reach across both coasts.
The Navy already operates INS Nistar under the Eastern Naval Command. With INS Nipun joining the fleet, India now has a two-ship, two-coast capability for specialised underwater missions.
Advanced Diving and Rescue Capabilities
INS Nipun has been equipped with advanced diving systems. It can undertake deep-sea saturation diving.
The vessel also carries remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). These systems can support diver monitoring, underwater inspection and salvage operations.
INS Nipun can serve as a mother ship for the Navy’s Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV).
This capability is particularly important during submarine emergencies. The vessel can support rescue efforts involving personnel trapped inside a distressed submarine.
Admiral Swaminathan said submarine rescue leaves very little room for delay. He noted that INS Nipun will significantly expand India’s ability to assist distressed submarines.
Nearly 75% Indigenous Content
INS Nipun was designed and built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam.
The vessel was delivered to the Navy on July 30, 2026. It has nearly 75% indigenous content.
The project reflects India’s growing capability in specialised naval shipbuilding. It also supports the country’s broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence initiative.
INS Nipun to Support HADR Missions
The vessel’s role extends beyond military operations.
Its specialised diving capabilities can support underwater salvage missions. It can also assist partner countries during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
The ship has modern navigation and station-keeping systems. It also includes specialised facilities for diving, underwater intervention and medical support.
Navy Focuses on Deployable Capability
Admiral Swaminathan said commissioning a vessel is only one part of capability creation.
He stressed that the real test is how quickly the platform becomes operationally deployable.
The induction of INS Nipun marks another step in India’s naval modernisation. It also strengthens the Navy’s ability to respond to complex challenges beneath the sea.
With its deep-sea diving, underwater intervention and submarine rescue capabilities, INS Nipun is expected to become a key asset for India’s maritime security.
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