The Indian Navy successfully launched the fifth Diving Support Craft (DSC) vessel in West Bengal on Saturday. The 'DSC A24' is reportedly the final vessel under the project, marking the completion of the five-ship programme aimed at strengthening the Indian Navy’s underwater operational capabilities.
The Diving Support Craft were built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) at its Kolkata shipyard. Designed with a catamaran-hull configuration and an approximate displacement of 300 to 400 tonnes, the DSC vessels come with enhanced stability, larger deck space, and improved sea-keeping characteristics.
"DSC A24 is equipped with state-of-the-art diving systems and is tailor-made for conducting operational dives. A testament to engineering excellence and indigenous capability, these ships are proud flag bearers of the @makeinindia initiative, strengthening the Indian Navy’s off-shore diving capabilities," the official handle of the Navy Spokesperson claimed.
These vessels were built to improve the Indian Navy’s capabilities in diving support, underwater inspection, salvage assistance, and coastal operational deployment, DD India said in a report. The Diving Support Craft can make the Indian Navy's future maritime operations and rescue system more effective and robust. It is equipped with state-of-the-art diving systems and is tailor-made for operational dives, underwater inspection, salvage and coastal operations.
In yet another proud achievement for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', around 70 per cent of the main and auxiliary equipment was sourced from domestic manufacturers. Among the attendees at the launch were Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh and other senior officials of the Indian Navy, along with TRSL representatives.
