India’s fourth-generation deep-ocean submersible successfully completes wet testing

New Delhi, Feb 17: India’s fourth-generation deep-ocean submersible, Matsya-6000, has successfully completed wet testing at Kattupalli Port near Chennai. A deep-ocean submersible is a specialized underwater vehicle made of titanium or other strong materials to withstand the immense pressure at deep-sea depths. It is designed to dive to extreme depths in the ocean for scientific research, exploration, or industrial purposes.

Developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) under the Samudrayan Project, the submersible is a key initiative of the Government of India’s Deep Ocean Mission, designed to accommodate three crew members for deep-sea exploration.

Equipped with advanced navigation, communication, and life-support systems, Matsya-6000 underwent rigorous dry and wet tests to assess power and control networks, buoyancy, manoeuvrability, safety, and scientific instruments. The trials included eight dives, five unmanned and three manned, validating its operational capabilities, officials said.

The successful testing strengthens confidence for the next phase: a 500-meter deep-sea demonstration by the end of 2025, paving the way for India’s future in deep-sea exploration.