DSC A24 (Yard-329) Launched: Fifth Diving Support Ship for Indian Navy
UPSC / SSC current affairs note
Why in news
The fifth Diving Support Ship (DSC) A-24 was launched on 1 August 2026 at Titagarh, Kolkata, marking a milestone in the five-ship DSC project. This event highlights India's progress in indigenous naval shipbuilding under the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.
Background
The Diving Support Ship project involves the construction of five vessels by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata, for the Indian Navy. These ships are designed to enhance diving support, underwater inspection, rescue operations, and coastal deployment capabilities.
Key facts
DSC A-24 (Yard-329) is the fifth ship under the five Diving Support Ship (DSC) project.
The ship was launched on 1 August 2026 at Titagarh, Kolkata, West Bengal.
The formal launch was performed by Smt. Kamal Singh in the presence of Chief of Personnel, Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh.
The ship is being built by M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata.
These vessels have a displacement capacity of approximately 300 to 400 tonnes.
The ships are based on a twin-hull design, providing better stability, more deck area, and excellent operability in challenging sea conditions.
The design and construction comply with naval standards and regulations set by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
About 70% of the main and auxiliary equipment used in these ships are sourced from domestic manufacturers.
The induction of these ships will enhance capabilities in diving support, underwater inspection, rescue assistance, and coastal deployment.
The project is a symbol of the Government of India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' initiatives.
Prelims pointers
- Diving Support Ship (DSC) project: five ships under construction.
- DSC A-24 (Yard-329): fifth ship launched.
- Builder: Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata.
- Indian Register of Shipping (IRS): naval standards and regulations.
- Twin-hull design: used for stability and deck area.
- Displacement: 300-400 tonnes.
- Indigenous content: about 70%.
- Launch date: 1 August 2026.
- Location: Titagarh, Kolkata, West Bengal.
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of indigenous shipbuilding in enhancing India's maritime security and self-reliance.
- Critically examine the role of 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in the defence sector, with reference to the DSC project.
- Analyze the strategic importance of diving support ships for the Indian Navy's underwater operations and coastal defence.