Mumbai: Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, has entered into an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with European offshore oil & gas vessel leader Royal IHC. The agreement, signed in the presence of Alar Infrastructure—Royal IHC’s Indian representative—aims to jointly design, build, and retrofit offshore oil and gas vessels and other specialized marine platforms.
The collaboration will focus on developing Offshore Construction Vessels, Pipe Laying Vessels, and Multi-Purpose Offshore Support Vessels at SDHD’s strategically located shipyard in Pipavav Port, Gujarat. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat missions, promoting indigenous manufacturing and enhancing cost competitiveness in the maritime sector.
By combining Royal IHC’s global expertise in vessel design, engineering, equipment, and project management with SDHD’s advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and fabrication capabilities, the partnership aims to deliver integrated, world-class solutions for offshore and specialized vessels. The alliance is poised to strengthen India’s position in the global shipbuilding industry and support the growing demands of both oil & gas and renewable energy markets.
Vivek Merchant, Director, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Royal IHC at a time when the industry is witnessing a growing demand for offshore vessels capable of serving both oil & gas and renewable energy markets. This collaboration positions us to address these emerging opportunities with world-class capabilities and competitive solutions.”
Derk te Bokkel, CEO, Royal IHC, added: “This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening our presence in Asia by partnering with India’s largest shipyard. Together with SDHD’s infrastructure and capabilities, we can deliver reliable and advanced offshore solutions to meet the evolving needs of the global energy market.”
Strategically located on India’s west coast, SDHD’s shipyard boasts the country’s largest dry dock (662m x 65m) and a fabrication capacity of 144,000 tons per annum—offering unmatched advantages in fulfilling India’s maritime and industrial ambitions
