The partnership will focus on newbuilds, ship repairs, and ancillary maritime infrastructure. The MoU outlines four areas of collaboration: technical and commercial evaluation, financing, project execution, and ecosystem development, aligned with the Maritime India Vision 2030, PM Gati Shakti, and India’s goal of becoming a global shipbuilding leader.
As part of the collaboration, SDHI and SMFCL will conduct feasibility studies covering project design, yard capacity, vessel types, and technology integration.
The partnership also aims to promote advanced shipbuilding technologies, including green fuels, energy-efficient designs, and digital shipyards, while encouraging local supply chains and vendor development.
The MoU includes plans to develop a financing framework addressing capital structure, equity, debt, and credit enhancements, with potential involvement of multilateral institutions, government agencies, and private investors.
Additionally, the collaboration will focus on sustainability and ESG reporting related to emissions, safety, and labour standards.
Rear Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena (retd), CEO of SDHI, said the partnership aims to create a globally competitive shipbuilding ecosystem, generate high-value jobs, strengthen supply chains, and enhance India’s presence in the international maritime economy.
The two organisations will also explore opportunities to boost vessel exports, engage in international shipbuilding value chains, and develop industry-academia partnerships and skill development programs for the maritime workforce.
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited, formerly Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited, is a leading shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company in India.
Located on the west coast, the shipyard operates the largest dry dock in the country (662m x 65m) and has a fabrication capacity of 144,000 tons per annum.
