The recent discovery of wreckage from a Pakistani submarine off the coast of Visakhapatnam has sparked widespread interest, with the indian Navy utilizing advanced technology to identify and confirm its origin. The submarine in question is believed to be PNS Ghazi, a diesel-electric submarine leased to pakistan by the US Navy during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
PNS Ghazi, with the objective of targeting India's only aircraft carrier at the time, INS Vikrant, entered the Bay of bengal but faced resistance from the indian Navy. In response to Ghazi's threat, INS Vikrant was strategically relocated, and INS Rajput, mimicking the signals of an aircraft carrier, drew Ghazi's attention. Recognizing what they thought was Vikrant, Ghazi prepared to attack.
On the night of december 3-4, 1971, disturbances in the sea were noticed by INS Rajput, and subsequently, charges were dropped, resulting in a massive explosion. Ghazi sank, claiming the lives of 92 Pakistani personnel. While pakistan claims the submarine sank due to an internal explosion, the recent discovery of wreckage suggests a different narrative.
The indian Navy used The Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV), a technology recently introduced, to identify the fragments of Ghazi lying on the seabed a few nautical miles off the coast of Visakhapatnam. These fragments, located 100 meters deep in sea waters, have been left untouched for years as a tribute to the war dead, adhering to naval customs.
DSRV technology, introduced in 2018, allows for the identification and rescue of distressed ships and submarines. It plays a crucial role in mapping submarine routes on the seabed and assessing conditions at various depths. The severe pressure at deeper levels makes this technology vital for underwater operations. India, being one of the twelve countries worldwide possessing DSRV technology, is now focusing on domestically manufacturing two more vessels at the Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam, emphasizing the nation's commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities.
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