Mumbai: The Indian Navy is set to commission ‘Nipun’, the second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) of the Nistar Class, at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. Indigenously designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, Nipun will strengthen the Navy’s deep-sea diving, underwater intervention and submarine rescue capabilities. The vessel was delivered to the Indian Navy on July 30, 2026, following extensive outfitting and trials.
Nipun is equipped with modern diving systems, underwater intervention facilities, navigation and platform management systems, precise station-keeping capabilities and specialised medical support facilities. These features enable the vessel to support sustained diving and complex underwater operations in challenging maritime conditions. Its induction marks another significant step towards self-reliance in defence shipbuilding and strengthens India’s ability to undertake specialised underwater missions across its maritime areas of interest.
The ship’s crest reflects its primary role as a Diving Support Vessel. It features a whale, symbolising endurance, longevity and sustained operations at great depths, along with a modern diving helmet, representing the diver and the advanced diving and life-support systems provided by the vessel. Together, the symbols portray Nipun’s core mission of supporting divers in deep-sea operations and ensuring their safe return, while reflecting the values of skill, endurance and professionalism.
