Indian Navy Enhances Submarine Rescue Capability With New LARS Test Facility In Visakhapatnam

The Indian Navy has added a new shore-based capability to its submarine rescue infrastructure with the commissioning of a Launch and Recovery System (LARS) Test Plinth at the Submarine Rescue Unit (East) in Visakhapatnam. The facility was inaugurated by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, strengthening the Navy’s ability to maintain and test specialised submarine rescue equipment.

The newly established test plinth has been developed as an in-house facility for conducting trials and maintenance of the LARS associated with the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). The system plays a critical role in submarine rescue operations by enabling the safe launch and recovery of the DSRV during missions.

The DSRV is designed to support rescue operations involving submarines in distress. For such missions, the reliability of every part of the rescue system is essential, as the equipment must be capable of being deployed and operated effectively during challenging underwater emergencies.

The new LARS Test Plinth provides the Submarine Rescue Unit with a dedicated location where the system can undergo shore-based testing and maintenance. This capability allows technical teams to assess the condition and performance of critical equipment in a controlled environment, helping identify maintenance requirements before the system is needed for an operational mission.

The facility is also expected to contribute to better equipment availability and operational readiness. Regular testing and timely maintenance of the LARS can help ensure that the submarine rescue system remains in a suitable state for rapid deployment when required.

The development has particular importance for the Eastern Seaboard, where the Indian Navy maintains submarine operations and associated support infrastructure. A dedicated testing facility can improve the sustainability of specialised rescue assets and strengthen the Navy’s ability to respond to underwater emergencies.

The establishment of the test plinth also highlights the Navy’s emphasis on developing in-house technical capabilities for the upkeep of complex defence systems. Building supporting infrastructure around critical operational assets can help improve maintenance efficiency and long-term equipment availability.

With the new LARS Test Plinth in place, the Submarine Rescue Unit (East) gains an important shore-based support capability for its DSRV rescue system. The facility is expected to strengthen submarine rescue preparedness and contribute to maintaining critical rescue equipment in a ready state for future emergency operations.