DSC A22 Launched: Boost to Navy’s Diving Fleet

On 12 September 2025, the Indian Navy marked the successful launch of DSC A22, the third ship of the five-vessel Diving Support Craft (DSC) project. Built by Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) in Kolkata, this ship strengthens India’s maritime capabilities, particularly in underwater and coastal operations. The launch was officiated by Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, Commander-in-Chief, with the ceremonial ship launch conducted by Mrs Kangana Berry, in accordance with naval tradition.

The Diving Support Craft Project

The DSC project is aimed at enhancing the Navy’s ability to conduct diving operations in coastal waters, which are essential for submarine rescue, underwater inspection, hull cleaning, salvage, and object recovery. The project is part of India’s Make in India initiative and reflects the increasing push for indigenous shipbuilding.

Contract & Builder

• The contract to construct five DSCs was signed on 12 February 2021 between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL).
• TRSL, primarily known for its work in rail systems, has ventured into defence shipbuilding, showcasing India’s expanding industrial capabilities.

Design & Technical Specifications

The DSCs are catamaran hull ships, which provide greater stability and deck space—crucial for diving platforms operating in shallow or rough waters. Their technical features include,

• Displacement: Approximately 380 tonnes
• Hull Design: Catamaran structure for improved buoyancy and stability
• Purpose: Designed for diving operations in coastal waters
• Equipment: Fitted with state-of-the-art diving systems, likely including decompression chambers, diver launch and recovery systems, and underwater cutting/welding tools

These vessels are compact yet robust, built for high-utility tasks along the Indian coastline, especially near naval bases, harbours, and infrastructure-sensitive zones.

Indigenous Innovation in Design

Compliance & Standards

The DSCs are built under the Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ensuring adherence to national maritime safety and construction standards.

Hydrodynamic Testing

An important feature of the project is the scientific rigor behind the design. Hydrodynamic analysis and model testing of these ships were conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam. This ensures that the ships perform efficiently in various sea conditions.

Such testing plays a key role in optimizing fuel efficiency, stability, and manoeuvrability—factors critical to vessels operating close to shore.

Strategic Importance of DSC A22

The launch of DSC A22 is more than just a milestone in a shipbuilding contract. It reflects India’s evolving approach to naval warfare and underwater operations. Diving Support Crafts serve key roles in,

• Submarine rescue missions
• Salvage of wreckage or critical equipment
• Underwater inspections and maintenance of vessels
• Training of naval divers

Given the growing underwater threats in the Indian Ocean Region, from sabotage to seabed warfare, having dedicated vessels for diving and salvage is a strategic necessity.

Make in India and Defence Manufacturing

The DSC project embodies the principles of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, with full design and construction taking place in India. It shows the potential of expanding India’s private sector involvement in defence production.

Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd, previously focused on transportation infrastructure, successfully entering the naval shipbuilding domain demonstrates diversification and capacity-building in Indian defence manufacturing.

Key Takeaways

• DSC A22 is the third of five Diving Support Crafts for the Navy.
• Built by Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL), Kolkata.
• Launched on 12 Sep 2025, presided by Vice Admiral Suraj Berry.
• Catamaran hull; approx 380 tonnes displacement.
• Designed under IRS rules; model testing by NSTL Visakhapatnam.
• Part of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat efforts.