Kochi, Dec 17 (UNI) The Indian Navy has commissioned Diving Support Craft (DSC) A20 at a ceremonial event held at the Naval Base in Kochi, marking a significant boost to its underwater operational capabilities.
DSC A20 is the eleventh naval vessel commissioned this year, reflecting the Navy’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capability and steady progress towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, and was attended by senior naval officers, veterans, representatives from Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd, Kolkata, and civilian dignitaries.
The induction of DSC A20 into active service strengthens the Navy’s ability to conduct critical underwater operations, including diving missions, salvage tasks, and clearance operations.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral Saxena described the vessel as a key enabler of the Navy’s underwater capabilities and a strong testament to indigenous design and construction.
He said, “The vessel would also enhance India’s capacity to assist friendly foreign nations in diving operations, underwater maintenance, and rescue missions, reinforcing India’s role as a first responder and trusted security partner in the region.”
DSC A20 is a modern catamaran-hull vessel equipped with advanced diving systems, underwater video monitoring and tracking facilities, and a two-man recompression chamber for safe and extended diving operations.
With enhanced endurance and manoeuvrability, the craft is expected to significantly strengthen the Navy’s maritime security architecture.
The ceremony held here on Tuesday included a Guard of Honour, reading of the Commissioning Warrant by the Commanding Officer Lt Cdr Hemant Singh Chauhan, hoisting of the Naval Ensign and Commissioning Pennant, and unveiling of the Commissioning Plaque. UNI DS MI AAB
Indian Navy commissions diving support craft A20 in Kochi
