SUBMARINE RESCUE SHIPS (ASR)

RESCUE

The Indian Navy operates a single ASR the INS NIREEKSHAK of 2160T.  This vessel deploys a 10 man Submarine Rescue Chamber (SRC).  The ASR has recompression facilities (max 18men in three chambers) and a two man SDC diving bell, capable of operating at 200m.  The SRV are launched and recovered by a large crane and must therefore be limited by sea state.  It is unlikely that they could be deployed in greater than sea state 3.

DIVING

Saturation Diving is possible to 300m, 5 Officers and 30 enlisted men are qualified for saturation diving.  A Diving Medical Specialist is carried.

GENERAL

NIREEKSHAK is based at Mumbai and at her listed maximum speed (12kts) could deploy to a DISSUB within 1000nm in three days, the endurance of an Indian DISSUB on escape stores is unknown.   DP and a 1200m Four Point Mooring system are fitted.  Liquid food can be pumped into the DISSUB.

VENTILATION

The system is capable of delivering air directly to the ballast tanks of the DISSUB.  In addition by mating the bell to a hatch and ventilating the bell the submarine may be ventilated.