Mumbai: The Indian Navy commissioned INS Nipun, the second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) of the Nistar Class, at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, on August 31, 2026, marking a significant enhancement of the Navy’s deep-sea diving and underwater support capabilities.
The ceremony was presided over 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. Other senior naval officers, representatives from Hindustan Shipyard Ltd., Visakhapatnam, veterans, distinguished guests and families of the commissioning crew were in attendance.
Indigenously designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam, INS Nipun embodies India’s growing capability to design and build technologically complex specialist naval platforms. Her induction is another significant step towards Aatmanirbharta in defence shipbuilding and reflects the contribution of Indian shipyards, industry and associated agencies towards strengthening the Navy’s indigenous capability.
INS Nipun is a purpose-built platform designed primarily for deep-sea diving and underwater operations. The ship is capable of supporting saturation, air and heliox diving and is equipped with remotely operated underwater systems for inspection and intervention.
Its specialised diving complex, dynamic positioning capability and associated life-support and medical facilities enable the conduct of sustained and complex operations at sea.
The ship is also capable of supporting submarine rescue operations, further strengthening the Indian Navy’s ability to respond to underwater contingencies.
Along with her sister ship INS Nistar, INS Nipun substantially enhances the Navy’s specialist diving, underwater intervention, salvage and submarine rescue support capability.
The ship’s crest and motto embody the spirit of her specialised role and the men who venture into the depths. The motto, ‘Far Beneath, Few Beyond’, reflects the resolve, skill and endurance required to operate in one of the most challenging domains of the maritime environment.
With the hoisting of the Commissioning Pennant, INS Nipun has formally entered operational service with the Indian Navy, ready to support those who operate beneath the waves and to contribute to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
