INS Nipun (Defence Sector)
INS Nipun (Defence Sector)
Why In News:
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Nipun on 31 August 2026 at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, strengthening India's specialised underwater and submarine-rescue capabilities.
INS Nipun: Key Features
INS Nipun is the second indigenous Diving Support Vessel (DSV) and has been built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam.
Around 75% of its components are indigenous, reflecting the emphasis on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence production.
Its motto is “Nischay, Nirbhay, Nipun”, while the Sanskrit word Nipun denotes skill, proficiency or expertise.
Diving, Rescue and Underwater Capabilities
The primary roles of INS Nipun include deep-sea diving, submarine rescue, underwater intervention, inspection and salvage operations.
It can support saturation, air and heliox diving to depths of up to 300 metres.
The vessel carries Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) for underwater inspection, monitoring and salvage activities.
INS Nipun can function as a mother ship for a Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV) during submarine rescue operations.
It is equipped with dynamic positioning, specialised life-support systems and medical facilities, enabling prolonged and technically demanding underwater missions.
Strategic Significance
With INS Nistar and INS Nipun, the Navy has strengthened its ability to undertake specialised underwater operations on both the eastern and western seaboards.
INS Nistar operates under the Eastern Naval Command, while INS Nipun strengthens the Navy's capability on the western seaboard.
INS Nistar is Indian Navy's first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), commissioned in Visakhapatnam.
The vessels provide dedicated support for submarine rescue and deep-sea intervention, which are critical for the safety and operational readiness of India's submarine fleet.
The indigenous construction of specialised DSVs strengthens India's domestic defence shipbuilding and underwater technology capabilities.
Key facts for Prelims
Diving Support Vessel (DSV): A specialised naval vessel that supports deep-sea diving, underwater intervention, salvage and submarine rescue operations.
Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV): A specialised rescue submersible designed to reach a disabled submarine and evacuate personnel trapped inside.
Western Naval Command: Headquartered at Mumbai and responsible for India's naval operations along the western seaboard.
Eastern Naval Command: Headquartered at Visakhapatnam and responsible for naval operations along the eastern seaboard.
Southern Naval Command: Headquartered at Kochi and primarily serves as the training command of the Indian Navy.