Diving Support Craft launched to boost Indian Navy’s underwater operational capabilities
KOLKATA, AUGUST: The fifth and final vessel under the Indian Navy’s Diving Support Craft (DSC) Project, DSC A24 (Yard 329), was launched at Titagarh, Kolkata, marking another milestone in India’s indigenous naval shipbuilding programme.
The vessel was launched by Kamal Singh in the presence of Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, Chief of Personnel, during a ceremony conducted with traditional naval customs. Senior officials of the Indian Navy and representatives of Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) attended the event.
The Diving Support Craft project is being executed by TRSL at its Kolkata shipyard. Built with a catamaran hull design and an approximate displacement of 300–400 tonnes, the craft offers enhanced stability, greater deck space and improved sea-keeping capabilities, making it well suited for complex diving operations.
The vessel has been designed and constructed in accordance with the Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
According to the Indian Navy, the induction of the five Diving Support Craft will significantly strengthen its capabilities in diving support, underwater inspections, salvage assistance and coastal operational deployments.
The project also reflects India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Around 70 per cent of the main and auxiliary equipment installed on the vessels has been sourced from indigenous manufacturers, supporting the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
The launch of DSC A24 completes the construction phase of all five vessels under the project, further enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Navy in underwater and coastal missions.
