The Indian Navy is set to commission ‘Nipun’ – the second diving support vessel of the Nistar-class, on August 31, 2026 at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. 

Indigenously designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd (HSL), Visakhapatnam, ‘Nipun’ represents a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence shipbuilding. 

The vessel was delivered to the Navy on July 30, 2026, following completion of an extensive programme of outfitting and trials. 

The induction of the vessel will mark an important addition to the Navy’s “deep-sea diving and underwater support capabilities”, the Defence Ministry said.

‘Nipun’ is a “purpose-built platform” designed to support a wide spectrum of diving and underwater operations. It is equipped with modern diving systems and underwater intervention capabilities, enabling sustained support to divers operating in demanding conditions at sea. 

The platform will also augment the Indian Navy’s capability to support submarine rescue operations.

The ship incorporates modern systems for navigation, platform management and precise station keeping, complemented by specialised facilities for diving, underwater intervention and medical support. These capabilities enable ‘Nipun’ to function as an integrated platform for complex operations beneath the surface, the MoD said.

Once commissioned, ‘Nipun’ will further strengthen the Navy’s ability to undertake specialised diving and underwater missions across India’s maritime areas of interest. 

The induction of the indigenously-built platform also reflects the growing capability of the country’s shipbuilding ecosystem to deliver technologically advanced and specialised vessels in support of the Navy’s operational requirements, the Defence Ministry said.

The Indian Navy is currently operating its maiden diving support vessel – INS Nistar – which was commissioned in July 2025.