India Launches the Fifth and Final Diving Support Craft DSC A24 at Titagarh

Key Facts

• Date of Launch: 1 August 2026
• Vessel Name: DSC A24 (fifth and final vessel of the Diving Support Craft Project)
• Shipyard: Titagarh Rail Systems Limited, Kolkata (formerly Titagarh Wagons Limited)
• Project Contract Date: 12 February 2021
• Project Duration: Approximately five and a half years
• Vessel Type: Diving Support Craft with catamaran hull form
• Displacement: 300 to 400 tonnes
• Indigenous Content: About 70% of main and auxiliary equipment sourced from Indian manufacturers
• Role: Underwater diving operations, inspection, repair, salvage assistance, primarily in coastal and harbour environments
• Significance: Supports Indian Navy's underwater operational capabilities and aligns with Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives

Background & Context

Diving Support Crafts (DSCs) are specialized small to medium naval vessels designed to support underwater operations such as diving, inspection, repair, and salvage work essential for naval activities, especially in coastal and harbour areas. The catamaran hull design of these vessels provides increased stability and expansive deck space which is advantageous for operational efficiency in diving tasks. The Diving Support Craft Project comprises five vessels, with the final vessel DSC A24 launched at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited shipyard in Kolkata, a facility involved in indigenous defence manufacturing. This project, contracted by the Ministry of Defence, took about five and a half years to complete and reflects India's push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' programs.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

This information is highly relevant for competitive examinations covering Indian current affairs, defence production, and technology. Questions may arise regarding India’s indigenous defence manufacturing efforts, recent naval technological advancements, and major projects under the Ministry of Defence. The launch date, shipyard, the nature and specifications of these vessels, and their strategic importance linked with national initiatives are important points. Awareness of the catamaran hull design and its benefits could also be asked in technical sections of exams.

Points to Remember

• DSC A24 is the fifth and final Diving Support Craft launched under this project, on 1 August 2026.
• The project was contracted on 12 February 2021 and completed in about 5.5 years.
• Titagarh Rail Systems Limited in Kolkata built all five vessels; the company was formerly known as Titagarh Wagons Limited.
• These vessels have a catamaran hull design offering greater stability and deck space.
• Displacement of vessels ranges from 300 to 400 tonnes.
• Approximately 70% of equipment onboard is sourced indigenously in line with 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' initiatives.
• DSCs support underwater naval operations including diving, inspection, repair, and salvage primarily in coastal and harbour waters.