Event Details
Titagarh Naval Systems Limited launched the fifth and final Diving Support Craft A24 (YARD 329) for the Indian Navy on August 1, 2026, at 1505 Hrs. The vessel was side-launched into the Hooghly River, completing a series of five Diving Support Crafts (DSCs) constructed under the Government of India's Make in India initiative.
Ceremony Details
The launch ceremony was attended by approximately 200 guests. Mrs. Kamal Singh, wife of Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh (AVSM, NM Chief of Personnel), performed the traditional naming and launch ceremony.
Vessel Specifications
The DSCs are catamaran-type vessels equipped with advanced, indigenously sourced systems. They are designed to support the Indian Navy's Command Clearance Diving Teams (CCDTs) in underwater operations including inspection, repair, maintenance, and salvage activities within harbour and near-shore environments. The vessels contain nearly 70% indigenous content.
Operational Role
In addition to operational deployment, the DSCs will serve as training platforms for the Indian Navy's diving personnel, enhancing operational readiness and capability development.
Management Commentary
Prithish Chowdhary, Dy. Managing Director, Titagarh Rail Systems Limited: Highlighted the achievement as reflecting the strength of Indian manufacturing and engineering, demonstrating evolving indigenous capabilities for complex vessels. Committed to expanding maritime capabilities and contributing to national self-reliance and Viksit Bharat vision.
Cmde. Hemant Khatri, Managing Director & CEO, Titagarh Naval Systems Limited: Noted this completes the launch of all five DSCs for the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone for naval shipbuilding in Eastern India. TNSL is the first private shipyard in West Bengal to build and deliver commissioned vessels for the Indian Navy. Focused on delivering reliable, high-quality platforms and preparing for more advanced defence shipbuilding programmes.
Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, AVSM, NM COP, Indian Navy: Emphasized that the launch reflects years of planning, hard work and teamwork. Highlighted the 70% indigenous content as showcasing the success of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. Acknowledged the partnership between Indian Navy and Indian industry in building world-class ships.
Strategic Context
TNSL was formed following the strategic restructuring of Titagarh Rail Systems Limited to focus on maritime growth. The company is developing a state-of-the-art, 50-acre shipyard at Falta, West Bengal, to cater to both national and international shipbuilding requirements. The new facility will be aligned with Industry 4.0 standards and capable of handling ships up to 180 meters in length with an annual capacity of 12-16 vessels.
Business Information
TNSL has an approximate order book of ₹500 crores (including taxes) and has delivered more than 35 vessels including coastal research ships for NIOT, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and GRSE. The establishment of TNSL enables Titagarh Rail Systems to focus on its core railway systems business while TNSL pursues aggressive growth in shipbuilding.
Future Plans
TNSL is actively exploring partnerships with strategic collaborators and investors to accelerate scaling and enhance capabilities under various Government of India maritime initiatives.