SDHI Wins Major Contract from Svitzer to Construct Four TRAnsverse 3200 Tugs

SDHI Wins Major Contract from Svitzer to Construct Four TRAnsverse 3200 Tugs​

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), recognized as one of India's largest shipbuilding and heavy engineering companies, has secured a significant contract to construct four advanced TRAnsverse 3200 tugs. The order was placed by the Denmark-based towage operator Svitzer A/S. Deliveries for these high-specification vessels are scheduled to commence in early 2028.

The contract followed an extensive competitive evaluation process involving leading global shipyards. These vessels will be built to Bureau Veritas class standards.

Advanced Design and Operational Efficiency​

Co-developed by naval architects Robert Allan Ltd. and Svitzer, the patented TRAnsverse 3200 design is engineered specifically for complex harbor towage and escort operations. Featuring a unique hydrodynamic hull design and omni-directional propulsion, these tugs are capable of safely guiding large ships through restricted port channels and severe weather conditions.

The vessels offer substantial operational advantages, delivering an 80-tonne bollard pull. Furthermore, the TRAnsverse design is reported to be up to 15% more fuel efficient than conventional tug designs, directly aiding global maritime decarbonization efforts.

Industry Impact and Future Focus​

Rear Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena IN (retd.), CEO of Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), stated that the award highlights SDHI's engineering capabilities in the high-specification vessel segment. He noted that winning this fourth consecutive export contract reflects growing confidence from global industry leaders, reaffirming SDHI's commitment to delivering vessels meeting the highest international standards while strengthening India's position as a competitive shipbuilding destination.

Mr. Kasper Friis Nilaus, CEO of Svitzer, commented on the partnership, noting that the TRAnsverse tug design provides significant benefits by improving port productivity, sustainability, and safety margins for customers. He added that the contract reflects Svitzer's continued investment in the Indian maritime sector, supporting the Government of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

Construction Details and Specifications​

The TRAnsverse 3200 tugs will be built at SDHI's yard in Pipavav, Gujarat, which is located adjacent to a harbor towage operation operated by Svitzer. The vessels meet stringent environmental requirements, being ready for biofuel use, IMO Tier III emissions standards, and FiFi1 firefighting class readiness, ensuring reduced environmental impact and enhanced fire-response capabilities in port operations.

About Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI)​

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited is a leading shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company located on the west coast of India. The shipyard operates the country's largest dry dock (662m x 65m) and possesses an impressive fabrication capacity of 164,000 tons per annum, providing a strong foundation for fulfilling maritime and industrial ambitions.

SWANDEF Stock Price Movement​

Shares of Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited surged on Wednesday, climbing 1.43% to settle at ₹2551.50. The strong performance saw the stock touch its 52-week high, with the equity trading on a volume of 26,179 shares.