Contract Details
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has secured a contract from Denmark-based towage operator Svitzer A/S to construct four advanced TRAnsverse 3200 tugs. Deliveries for the order are scheduled to commence in early 2028.
Contract Award Process
The contract follows an extensive competitive evaluation of leading global shipyards. This marks SDHI's fourth consecutive export contract, reflecting growing confidence of global category leaders in SDHI's capabilities.
Vessel Specifications
The high-specification vessels will be constructed to Bureau Veritas class and feature:
- Patented TRAnsverse 3200 design co-developed by naval architects Robert Allan Ltd. and Svitzer
- Engineered for complex harbour towage and escort operations
- Unique hydrodynamic hull design and omni-directional propulsion
- Capable of safely guiding large ships through severe weather and restricted port channels
- 80-tonne bollard pull capability
- 15% more fuel efficient than conventional tug designs
- Biofuel ready
- IMO Tier III emissions standards compliant
- FiFi1 firefighting class ready
- Supports global maritime decarbonization goals
Manufacturing Location
The vessels will be built at SDHI's yard in Pipavav, Gujarat, adjacent to the port where Svitzer also has a harbour towage operation.
Management Commentary
Rear Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena IN (retd.), CEO, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited:
- Notable achievement for SDHI to construct one of the world's most sophisticated towage vessels
- Svitzer's rigorous evaluation process reaffirms the strength of SDHI's engineering capabilities in niche, high-specification vessel segment
- Winning fourth consecutive export contract reflects growing confidence of global category leaders
- Focus on strengthening India's position as a globally competitive shipbuilding destination
Mr. Kasper Friis Nilaus, CEO, Svitzer:
- TRAnsverse tug design offers significant benefits in releasing operational constraints and improving port productivity, sustainability and safety margins
- Partnership with SDHI will deliver four next-generation vessels to benefit customers and maritime supply chains globally
- Contract reflects continued investment in Indian maritime sector
- Highlights commitment to Government of India's Maritime India Vision 2030, Make in India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives
Strategic Context
This order is part of Svitzer's long-term fleet renewal programme, aimed at deploying next-generation, high-efficiency vessels to optimize port and terminal operations globally. Svitzer operates a fleet of over 500 vessels worldwide.
Company Background
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited operates India's largest dry dock (662m x 65m) and has fabrication capacity of 164,000 tons per annum. The company is strategically located on the west coast of India.