Pankouri Class Diving Support Vessel (DSV)

Reading Time: 2 minutes The Pankouri Class Diving Boat represents a significant advancement in Bangladesh’s indigenous naval capabilities, tailored specifically for underwater operations and support roles in both peacetime and contingency scenarios. Designed by Akuatecmarin (AMT) of Türkiye and constructed entirely at Khulna Shipyard Limited, the class includes three vessels: BNS Pankouri, BNS Gangchil, and BNS Machhranga. Commissioned into service in June 2025, these boats form a dedicated diving support platform within the Bangladesh Navy, optimised for salvage operations, underwater inspections, disaster response, and maritime law enforcement tasks. General Characteristics SpecificationDetailClass NamePankouri ClassTypeDiving Support Vessel (DSV)BuilderKhulna Shipyard Ltd, BangladeshOperatorsBangladesh NavyKeel Laid10 June 2021Commissioned26 June 2025Number in Class3 (Pankouri, Gangchil, Machhranga) Dimensions and Performance FeatureSpecificationLength Overall38.90 metresBreadth9.00 metresDepth4.50 metresDraft2.20 metresDisplacementEstimated 300–400 tonnes (unofficial)Maximum Speed15 knotsRange / EnduranceCoastal and EEZ support operations Propulsion and Power SystemSpecificationEngines2 × Caterpillar diesel engines (USA)Engine Output1,200 kW (1,609 HP) eachGenerators2 × Caterpillar 250 kW unitsPropulsion TypeTwin