The DSRV, which is operated by a crew of three, can rescue 14 personnel from a disabled submarine at one time.

Read in Hindi: भारतीय नौसेना की ताकत में हुआ इजाफा

On October 15, DSRV carried out underwater mating with a bottomed submarine, at over 300 feet depth. On successful mating, the vehicle opened its hatches and the submarine hatches and carried out a transfer of personnel from the submarine to the DSRV.

During the trials, this vehicle also dived successfully up to 666 meters. This is a record for deepest submergence by a manned vessel in Indian waters. The crew has also carried outside scan sonar operations at over 650 meters.

The ongoing trials will also include air transportation of the system by the Indian Air Force’s heavy lift transport aircraft. Completion of the trials will put the Indian Navy into a small league of world navies that have integral submarine rescue capability.