Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has commenced work to complete five Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs) for Kakinada-based San Maritime India Pvt Ltd. The vessels have entered the dry dock at SDHI’s Pipavav shipyard and will be completed under Indian Register of Shipping (IR) Class to serve the evolving requirements of India’s offshore energy sector.
The project marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s offshore fleet under the national flag. Upon delivery, the vessels will enhance domestic offshore capabilities, support energy exploration and production activities, and generate substantial employment across the maritime value chain. The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s focus on expanding indigenous shipbuilding capacity through targeted financial assistance and industry incentives aimed at building a self-reliant maritime ecosystem.
The hulls for the five OSVs were originally part of the asset portfolio acquired during SDHI’s resolution process under the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). These hulls were subsequently purchased by San Maritime, paving the way for their completion at the revived Pipavav facility. While construction had begun under the previous ownership, the current leadership at SDHI will now take the vessels through final outfitting, systems integration, trials, and delivery—demonstrating the shipyard’s operational readiness and project execution strength.
The commencement of this program is expected to provide a strong boost to local vendors, contractors, and marine service providers. It will activate supply chains spanning fabrication, electrical systems, marine engineering, and logistics, thereby contributing to regional economic growth and technical skill development.
Strategically located on India’s west coast, SDHI operates the country’s largest dry dock measuring 662 meters by 65 meters, along with a 340 meter by 60 meter wet basin and approximately 1.2 kilometers of dedicated waterfront for berthing, docking, and vessel launches. The yard also maintains an annual fabrication capacity of 164,000 tons, enabling it to undertake complex shipbuilding and heavy engineering projects.
Formerly known as Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited, SDHI has re-emerged as a key player in India’s shipbuilding and heavy fabrication sector. The company continues to focus on quality execution, safety standards, technological advancement, and sustainable industrial practices as it supports India’s growing maritime and offshore ambitions.
The completion of these five OSVs underscores SDHI’s commitment to revitalizing domestic shipbuilding while contributing meaningfully to national maritime capability and economic progress. Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited, formerly Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited, is one of India’s leading shipbuilding and heavy fabrication companies. Located on the west coast, the shipyard operates India’s largest dry dock and has an annual fabrication capacity of 164,000 tonnes, enabling it to undertake large and complex maritime and industrial projects. SDHI remains focused on innovation, operational excellence, safety, and sustainability.
