The Indian Navy’s Submarine Rescue Unit (East), aboard INS Nistar, demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism during Exercise Pacific Reach 2025 (XPR-25) hosted by the Republic of Singapore Navy.
Between 15 and 25 September 2025, the unit successfully conducted three submarine rescues with international vessels, including historic first matings outside the Indian Ocean, underscoring India’s rising stature in global submarine safety efforts.
This multinational exercise included over 40 nations and featured two phases aimed at enhancing coordination in submarine rescue operations. INS Nistar led a groundbreaking coordinated three-asset rescue drill, marking a key milestone in the Pacific Reach history.
Submarine Rescue Excellence Demonstrated
XPR-25 was held across two phases – a shore phase involving expert symposiums and professional exchanges, followed by a sea phase in the South China Sea involving rescue operations. The Indian Navy’s Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) Tiger X made its maiden dives outside Indian waters, successfully mating with submarines from the Republic of Korea Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy.
The highlight was a coordinated multinational rescue exercise where INS Nistar spearheaded localisation and surveying of the simulated distressed submarine, facilitating swift rescue vehicle deployment and successful mating within an hour. India’s participation demonstrated the navy’s full spectrum of intervention capabilities and reinforced its operational readiness and international cooperation.
INS Nistar: India’s Deep Sea Guardian
Commissioned in July 2025, INS Nistar is India’s first indigenously designed Diving Support Vessel (DSV) equipped with state-of-the-art technology including Dynamic Positioning Systems, Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), side-scan sonar, and subsea cranes. It acts as a mothership for the DSRV, enabling deep-sea rescue missions and support for submarine crew recovery under challenging conditions.
With an endurance of over 60 days and advanced medical facilities, the INS Nistar enhances India’s strategic maritime capabilities, especially in the Eastern Naval Command. Its participation in XPR-25 signifies India’s commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian assistance in a geopolitically sensitive region.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
India’s impressive accomplishments at XPR-25 exemplify how dedication, preparedness, and cooperation can preserve lives and strengthen global ties.
The Logical Indian views such multinational exercises as essential steps towards peaceful collaboration amidst regional tensions. Ensuring safety beneath the oceans is vital for secure trade, energy routes, and environmental stewardship.
