Indian Navy commissions INS Nipun for deep-sea operations

The Indian Navy has strengthened its deep-sea and submarine rescue capabilities with the commissioning of INS Nipun in Mumbai. The second indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel will enhance the Navy’s ability to conduct complex operations above, on and beneath the waves, while also supporting submarine rescue missions.

Addressing the commissioning ceremony, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan said combat readiness remains the Navy’s foremost responsibility amid a contested maritime environment.

Based under the Western Naval Command, INS Nipun is equipped with advanced diving systems, decompression chambers, hyperbaric lifeboats and remotely operated vehicles. The nearly 9,000-tonne vessel can also operate the Navy’s Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel, strengthening India’s ability to assist distressed submarines, including those of partner nations.