“Dive into History: Exploring INS Kursura in Vizag”

“Step aboard INS Kursura in Vizag, a legendary submarine turned museum, and explore India’s naval history beneath the waves. A must-see for history buffs and adventure seekers!”

“Discover the legacy of India’s naval heroes aboard the INS Kursura.”

The Indian Navy has a proud and storied history, one that is filled with remarkable achievements, brave sailors, and monumental missions that shaped the nation’s defense. Among the many symbols of India’s naval prowess, INS Kursura, a Soviet-era submarine that was later decommissioned and turned into a museum in Visakhapatnam, stands as a testament to the courage, innovation, and resilience of the men who served aboard her. Today, INS Kursura, one of the most unique naval museums in the world, invites visitors to take a deep dive into the past and discover the legacy of India’s naval heroes.

The Origins of INS Kursura

INS Kursura (S20) was originally commissioned into the Indian Navy on December 18, 1969, as part of the Navy’s strategic expansion during the Cold War era. She was a Foxtrot-class submarine, built by the Soviet Union and served as a vital component of India’s naval fleet. At the time of her commission, the Indian Navy was in the process of modernizing and strengthening its defense capabilities to counter regional threats, particularly in the context of the Indian Ocean.

The submarine, designed for reconnaissance and patrol missions, was equipped with advanced sonar systems and torpedoes, capable of targeting surface vessels and submarines. INS Kursura spent over 30 years in active service, playing a pivotal role in several maritime operations, and was involved in many covert missions, contributing immensely to India’s strategic naval capabilities.

A Submarine Like No Other

INS Kursura is unique not only because of her long and distinguished service but also because of her transformation into a museum. After being decommissioned in 2001, she was docked at Rama Krishna Beach in Visakhapatnam and converted into a public museum in 2002. The submarine’s conversion into a museum was a decision taken by the Eastern Naval Command to preserve the submarine’s rich legacy and educate the public about the contributions of the Indian Navy.

The submarine is now one of the most visited attractions in Visakhapatnam, drawing both history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike. Visitors have the opportunity to walk through the narrow passageways, cramped crew quarters, and operational rooms of the submarine, experiencing firsthand the harsh and challenging conditions that naval personnel endured during their missi Vizag Timings

INS Kursura submarine Vizag Timings

Entry Fees:

• Adults: ₹40
• Children (below 12 years): ₹20
• Still Camera: ₹50
• Video Camera: ₹200

The Legacy of INS Kursura

INS Kursura’s journey from active service to museum status is a story of historical importance. Beyond the metal walls of the submarine, the legacy of the men who served aboard her is what truly makes the submarine memorable. These sailors were often far away from their families, stationed at sea for extended periods, enduring extreme conditions to ensure the safety and sovereignty of the nation’s waters.

Over the decades, the crew of INS Kursura was involved in critical naval operations, including surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and naval reconnaissance. The submarine’s role in safeguarding India’s interests in the Indian Ocean cannot be overstated, and her crew’s professionalism and courage played a key part in many covert naval operations.

One of the most notable operations during the submarine’s service was her involvement during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, where the Indian Navy launched a series of successful offensive strikes. Although INS Kursura didn’t see active combat during the war, the strategic presence of the submarine provided India with a critical edge in terms of deterrence, surveillance, and readiness. The submarine’s stealth and capabilities allowed the Navy to monitor enemy activity and defend Indian waters effectively.

Gallary of INS Kursura submarine

Visakhapatnam,andhra pradesh, india 1 April 2022 NS Kursura (S20) was a Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine of the Indian Navy. She was India’s fifth submarine.

Visakhapatnam,andhra pradesh, india 1 April 2022 NS Kursura (S20) was a Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine of the Indian Navy. She was India’s fifth submarine.

INS kursura is a decommissioned Indian submarine put on display at Visakhapatnam,India

Panoramic view of INS Kursura Submarine Museum at Visakhapatnam,in the state of andrapradesh

INS Kursura and India’s Naval Heritage

INS Kursura stands as a vital link in the chain of India’s naval heritage. As the world’s largest democracy, India faces numerous maritime challenges, with one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world lying along its coastline. The strategic importance of the Indian Navy cannot be overstated. The Navy not only ensures the security of India’s waters but also plays a critical role in global maritime peacekeeping.

Submarines like INS Kursura are the silent sentinels of India’s defense, their stealth and ability to project power under the sea contributing to the nation’s maritime strength. Today, the INS Kursura serves as an enduring symbol of the role submarines have played in India’s defense strategy and the vital importance of naval heroes who serve selflessly.

The transformation of INS Kursura into a museum allows future generations to understand the importance of naval defense and the contributions of sailors who served with unwavering commitment. It is a reminder that the legacy of these naval heroes is not just preserved in military history but also in the public’s consciousness.

Conclusion: A Tribute to India’s Naval Heroes

A visit to the INS Kursura in Visakhapatnam is more than just a walk through an old submarine—it’s a journey through history, a tribute to the heroes who gave their best to ensure the safety of their homeland. The museum allows the visitor to appreciate not only the technology behind the submarine but also the human spirit that drove its operation. It stands as a testament to the courage, intelligence, and sacrifices made by India’s naval heroes.

Today, INS Kursura continues to inspire and educate, offering a unique and valuable experience that connects the past with the present. For anyone interested in India’s naval history, or anyone who admires the indomitable spirit of its armed forces, INS Kursura is a must-see monument of pride and valor.

Map for INS Kursura Submarine