Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) has achieved a significant milestone by securing its first contract for six IMO Type II chemical tankers, valued at $227 million. This landmark order from Rederiet Stenersen AS marks a pivotal moment for India’s shipbuilding sector, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in maritime construction.
South Korea’s HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) has secured a contract valued at approximately USD 121 million to construct a very large gas carrier (VLGC) for a European shipowner. This project, expected for delivery in the first half of 2028, adds to the company’s growing portfolio of gas carrier contracts.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) recently delivered the MS Heinz, a versatile vessel, to HS Schiffahrts UG & Co KG in Germany on January 12. This marks the first delivery in the HS EcoFreighter series. The vessel, designed for diverse cargo types and built at CSL’s Kochi facility, underscores CSL’s commitment to global shipbuilding.
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) showcased its innovative technologies at the MIT Maritime Consortium Workshop 2025, focusing on AI-driven autonomous operations and carbon reduction. Key developments included the HiNAS Control system and a prototype AI model for cybersecurity. The consortium outlined a roadmap emphasizing carbon neutrality and digital transformation.
MSC Cruises has signed a landmark deal with Meyer Werft to build four cruise ships, valued at over €10 billion. The new “New Frontier” vessels, each weighing 180,000 gross tons and accommodating 5,400 passengers, will enhance guest experiences while incorporating advanced environmental technologies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Birdon, a marine engineering firm operating in Australia and the U.S., faced challenges with distributed teams and tight schedules. By partnering with SSI and adopting ShipConstructor, Birdon customized its software for unique workflows, automating layout tasks. This integration enhanced efficiency, reduced errors, and improved collaboration across global projects in the maritime industry.
India and Russia are exploring joint production of Arctic-class vessels, aiming to boost maritime cooperation and trade along the International North-South Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok route. Russian logistics firms are interested, while India’s shipyards expand capabilities. Talks remain early, as both nations seek a stronger Eurasian transport partnership.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s dedication to shaping the maritime future, emphasizing shipbuilding and international partnerships. At the Samudra Utkarsh Seminar 2025, he praised India’s capabilities, asserting that all naval ships are built locally. He urged collaboration to enhance maritime industry and voiced commitment to Prime Minister Modi’s vision of self-reliance.
The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has received approval for six new policies aimed at enhancing the maritime ecosystem in Gujarat. These regulations will focus on shipbuilding, land management, reclamation, and a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for the Gulf of Khambhat, addressing critical maritime challenges in the region.
South Korean shipbuilding leader HD Hyundai has marked a historic achievement by delivering its 5,000th vessel, a testament to its 50-year journey since the inaugural 260,000-ton supertanker Atlantic Baron in 1974. The latest delivery, the Philippine patrol vessel Diego Silang, underscores this remarkable milestone in the industry.
High-level interagency consultations took place in New Delhi, led by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Nikolai Patrushev, aide to the Russian President. The talks emphasized the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, covering shipbuilding, port development, and Arctic operations, aiming for enhanced cooperation and long-term prosperity.
India and South Korea plan to deepen shipbuilding cooperation, merging Korea’s advanced technology with India’s manufacturing strengths. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the need to boost Indian-flagged vessels for energy imports. Recent Indian maritime reforms and industry incentives aim to position India as a major global shipbuilding and maritime hub.
Canadian shipbuilder Seaspan has delivered the CCGS Naalak Nappaaluk, the new flagship of Canada’s scientific fleet. Named after an Inuit elder, it replaces the 59-year-old CCGS Hudson. Despite facing delays and budget overruns, the vessel will support oceanographic research and assist in search and rescue operations in Arctic conditions.
Fincantieri has secured a contract to build an ultra-luxury cruise ship for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, set for delivery in 2033. This vessel will be a sister ship to the Seven Seas Prestige, currently under construction. The agreement, valued between $550 million and $1.15 billion, emphasizes Fincantieri’s commitment to innovation.
Mumbai is gearing up to be a major shipbuilding hub, with plans for “Made-in-Mumbai” passenger vessels and cruise ships. The state secured investments worth ₹55,719 crore to enhance shipbuilding and port infrastructure during the India Global Maritime Summit 2025. Initiatives aim to boost India’s maritime leadership and sustainability.
