India Launches Fifth Diving Support Craft DSC A24

The Indian Navy launched DSC A24, the fifth and final vessel under its Diving Support Craft Project, on 1 August 2026 at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited shipyard in Kolkata. The five-ship programme was contracted by the Ministry of Defence on 12 February 2021 and was completed in about five and a half years.

Diving Support Craft: Definition and Role

Diving Support Craft are small-to-medium naval vessels used for underwater diving operations, inspections, repairs, and salvage work. These vessels operate mainly in coastal and harbour environments and support naval tasks that require underwater access.

Design Features of DSC A24

DSC A24 and the other vessels in the class use a catamaran-hull form. The catamaran design provides greater stability and deck space, and the vessels have a displacement in the range of 300 to 400 tonnes. The craft are fitted with diving systems for operational dives, underwater inspection, salvage assistance, and coastal deployment. The vessel class was built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited, which was earlier known as Titagarh Wagons Limited.

Indigenous Content and Naval Procurement

About 70 per cent of the main and auxiliary equipment onboard the Diving Support Craft has been sourced from Indian manufacturers. The project is linked with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives in defence production. The launch of DSC A24 completed the five-ship order under the Diving Support Craft Project. The vessel was ceremonially launched by Mrs. Kamal Singh, wife of Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, Chief of Personnel, in accordance with naval tradition.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Indian Navy uses Diving Support Craft for underwater inspection, repair, and salvage tasks.
• Catamaran hulls are known for stability and wider deck area in small naval vessels.
• Titagarh Rail Systems Limited is a Kolkata-based shipyard involved in the DSC Project.
• Indigenous sourcing in defence procurement is associated with Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.