Royal IHC and Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to work together in the build of offshore construction vessels. The agreement, expands Royal IHC’s footprint in Asia and supports India’s maritime ambitions.
The agreement was signed in collaboration with Alar Infrastructure, Royal IHC’s representative in India. It will focus on the design, construction, and retrofitting of offshore construction vessels, pipe laying vessels, and multi-purpose offshore support vessels at SDHI’s advanced shipyard located at Pipavav Port, Gujarat.
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Indigenous manufacturing
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” programmes, promoting indigenous manufacturing and enhancing cost competitiveness in the global shipbuilding market.
‘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 and gas and renewable energy markets,’ says Vivek Merchant, Director, SDHI. ‘This collaboration positions us to address these emerging opportunities with world-class capabilities and competitive solutions.’
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Stronger IHC presence in Asia
Royal IHC will contribute its world-class expertise in vessel design, engineering, mission equipment integration, and project management. SDHI brings to the table its infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location. The Pipavav shipyard features India’s largest dry dock (662 m x 65 m) and a fabrication capacity of 144,000 tonnes per annum, offering unmatched capabilities for large-scale maritime projects.
Derk te Bokkel, CEO of Royal IHC: ‘This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening our presence in Asia by partnering with India’s largest shipyard. Together with SDHI’s infrastructure and capabilities, we can deliver reliable and advanced offshore solutions to meet the evolving needs of the global energy market.’
Picture by Royal IHC.
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