Swan Defence Achieves Breakthrough with Major Chemical Tanker Order from Rederiet Stenersen AS

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited Secures Milestone Order for Chemical Tankers

In a significant move for India's maritime industry, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has successfully signed a contract to build six IMO Type II chemical tankers, marking their first newbuild order. This pivotal agreement is with Rederiet Stenersen AS, a prominent shipowner in Europe, and is valued at USD 227 million. The contract entails constructing the vessels at SDHI’s revitalized shipyard located in Gujarat, India.

A Step Forward in Shipbuilding

The order not only signifies SDHI's operational stride in the shipbuilding sector but also highlights India's potential in creating complex and high-quality commercial vessels. As stated by Vivek Merchant, Director of SDHI, this partnership reflects a historic transformation for the shipyard as it embarks on its journey towards becoming a state-of-the-art shipbuilding hub. The contract also includes an option for an additional six sister vessels, indicating further potential for growth and expansion.

The first tanker is expected to be ready for delivery within 33 months, with the remaining vessels set to follow at regular intervals. This timeline provides robust job stability and reinforces local economies linked to the shipbuilding industry.

Advanced Design and Features

The tankers, designed by Marinform AS and StoGda Ship Design Engineering, will be classified by DNV and constructed to Ice Class 1A standards. One of the standout features of these vessels is the integration of a dual-fuel LNG-ready hybrid propulsion system, enabling versatile operational modes that are essential for modern maritime requirements. The advanced technology incorporated into these vessels further solidifies SDHI’s position as a forward-thinking player in the global maritime landscape.

The Growing Maritime Ecosystem

SDHI's contract with Rederiet Stenersen AS is not merely an order; it represents a significant endorsement of India's burgeoning commercial shipbuilding ecosystem. In recent years, progressive maritime policies, including the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance scheme, have facilitated Indian private shipyards in competing with global shipping giants. This development fosters a conducive environment for innovation and excellence within the shipbuilding domain.

Merchant emphasized the importance of this order by expressing gratitude to Rederiet Stenersen AS for their trust in SDHI's capabilities, illustrating a growing international confidence in Indian shipbuilding.

The Future of Shipbuilding in India

This contract marks the first newbuild order from India’s largest shipyard following its recent revitalization under new management. John Stenersen, Director of Ship Management at Rederiet Stenersen AS, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the decision to engage in a partnership with SDHI was guided by a thorough technical and commercial evaluation. The confidence displayed by Stenersen not only showcases SDHI's engineering and infrastructure capabilities but also highlights the evolving reputation of Indian shipyards on a global scale.

This milestone paves the way for future collaborations and potential orders, setting a new precedent in India’s shipbuilding industry. As SDHI continues to develop and refine its shipbuilding practices, the partnership with Rederiet Stenersen AS serves as a beacon of progress, illustrating the bright future of maritime manufacturing in India.

For more information, visit www.sdhi.co.in.