Indian shipyard launches first Diving Support Craft A20 in Kolkata.

According to information published by the Indian government on August 31, 2023, M/s Titagarh Wagons Ltd launched the first Diving Support Craft DSC A 20 (Yard 325) in Kolkata.
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First Diving Support Craft or DSA A20. (Picture source: Indian Navy)

The project, under the helm of Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) - previously known as Titagarh Wagons Ltd (TWL) - took place at Titagarh, Kolkata, with the ship making its maiden entry into the Hooghly River.

The contract for the construction of the five Diving Support Craft was finalized between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Titagarh Wagons Ltd on February 12, 2021.

Measuring 30 meters in length and with a displacement nearing 300 tons, these catamaran hull ships are tailored to execute both operational and training diving assignments in harbours and along coastal waters.

Equipped with state-of-the-art diving technology and tools, the DSCs stand as a testament to India's commitment to naval advancement. Furthermore, these crafts have been designed and constructed indigenously, in compliance with the Naval Rules and Regulations set by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Critical hydrodynamic assessments and model tests during the design phase were conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam.

Echoing the 'Make in India' and 'Make for the World' campaigns initiated by the Government of India and the Ministry of Defence, these ships predominantly feature equipment sourced from local manufacturers.

A significant milestone was also achieved during today's event, with the laying of the keel for the fifth and final Diving Support Craft, 'DSC A 24'. VAdm Sanjay Mahindru, marking the occasion, emphasized the parallel construction of all five crafts for the Indian Navy. All DSCs are projected for delivery in the fiscal year 2024-25.