India’s “Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel” Joins Search For Submarine

What is the News?

The Indian Navy sent its deep submergence rescue vessel(DSRV) to support the Indonesian Navy in the search and rescue efforts. Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala went missing with 53 personnel aboard.

Note: Indian Navy had received an alert through the International Submarine Escape and Rescue Liaison Office(ISMERLO) regarding the missing Indonesian submarine.

About Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel(DSRV):

• DSRV is a type of deep-submergence vehicle used for the rescue of downed submarines and clandestine missions.
• India is amongst the few countries in the world capable of undertaking the search and rescue of a disabled submarine through a DSRV.
• Features: The Indian Navy’s DSRV system consists of:
  • Firstly, Side Scan Sonar: It can locate a disabled submarine up to 1,000-metre depth using side-scan sonar and remotely operated vehicle.
  • Secondly, Submarine Rescue Vehicle: It links with the submarine to rescue the trapped personnel. Thus, it can also provide emergency supplies to the submarine.
  • Third, Diver Decompression Chambers and hyperbaric medical equipment: It can decompress submariners, after rescue from a sunken submarine.
    International Submarine Escape and Rescue Liaison Office(ISMERLO):

• ISMERLO aims to facilitate an international response for distressed submarines. The office also aims to improve the ability to respond to a call for assistance, through coordination.
• Established by: NATO and the Submarine Escape and Rescue Working Group(SMERWG) in 2003.
• Reason: The office was established following the disaster of the Russian submarine K-141 Kursk.
• Significance: Although established by NATO, the Office supports all nations and pursues the involvement of global submarine-operating nations.

 Source: The Hindu