DSC A24 (Yard 329): Indian Navy's Indigenous Diving Support Craft

DSC A24 (Yard 329): Indian Navy's Indigenous Diving Support Craft

#GS-3 #Science & Technology #Defence #Current Events #National #Indian Navy #Make in India

Why in News

  • The fifth and final vessel of the Diving Support Craft project, named DSC A24 (Yard 329), was launched at the Titagarh shipyard in Kolkata, West Bengal.

What It Is

  • It is a specialized twin-hull vessel designed for subsea diving support, salvage work, and coastal operations.
  • This vessel marks the completion of a five-vessel Diving Support Craft contract awarded by the Indian Navy.

Development and Standards

  • The vessel was built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited at its facility in Kolkata.
  • Engineers designed and constructed the ship in compliance with the naval rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Aim

  • The project aims to strengthen the operational readiness of the Indian Navy's Command Clearance Diving Teams (CCDTs) for underwater inspections and harbor missions.

Key Features

  • The twin-hull catamaran design offers high stability, better sea-keeping ability, and a larger working deck space.
  • The ship has a displacement capacity of 300 to 400 tonnes, making it ideal for shallow waters.
  • Domestic manufacturers supplied about 70% of the machinery under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
  • The vessel features specialized equipment to operate subsea tools, divers, and decompression chambers.
  • It meets strict Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) safety and structural guidelines for maritime use.

Significance

  • The launch completes the five-vessel Diving Support Craft project, enhancing the underwater capabilities of the Indian Navy.
  • It showcases the growing ability of private shipbuilders like Titagarh Rail Systems Limited under the Make in India initiative.