Svitzer has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to collaborate on the construction of next-generation electric TRAnsverse tugs in India. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Svitzer’s electrification strategy while reinforcing India’s position as a global maritime manufacturing hub.
Under the agreement, Svitzer and CSL will work together to produce electrically powered TRAnsverse tugs at CSL’s facilities, reflecting Svitzer’s commitment to the “Make in India” initiative and to delivering some of the world’s most advanced, environmentally friendly tug designs. The announcement was made during India Maritime Week in Mumbai.
The partnership will leverage Svitzer’s global expertise in sustainable towage alongside CSL’s proven shipbuilding capabilities, India’s engineering talent, and local supply chain strengths. TRAnsverse tugs, renowned for their manoeuvrability and efficiency, offer precise handling in confined waterways, improving operational safety while reducing energy use and emissions.
These vessels are planned for deployment within Svitzer’s global fleet and in Indian port operations, combining world-class design with local manufacturing. The project represents a key step toward decarbonizing port towage and supporting India’s transition to greener maritime infrastructure.
“This LoI marks a major step in our journey toward electrified towage,” said Kasper Nilaus, CEO of Svitzer. “Cochin’s shipbuilding expertise and India’s skilled engineering workforce make it an ideal location for developing TRAnsverse tugs. Aligning with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, we aim to deliver cleaner, safer, and more efficient harbour operations globally.”
Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of CSL, added: “We are excited to work with Svitzer to plan and build next-generation TRAnsverse tugs in India. This collaboration highlights CSL’s capabilities, strengthens local supply chains, and brings high-performance, eco-friendly tugs to ports in India and beyond.”
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) is one of India’s premier shipbuilding and maintenance facilities, playing a crucial role in the country’s maritime sector. Established in 1972 and headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, CSL specializes in the construction, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of vessels, including commercial ships, defense vessels, offshore support ships, and specialized vessels.
The shipyard has built India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (INS Vikrant), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s naval capabilities. Over the years, CSL has expanded its capabilities, delivering high-quality vessels for both domestic and international clients. It has also ventured into green shipbuilding technologies and is actively involved in developing zero-emission vessels, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability.
Beyond shipbuilding, Cochin Shipyard is a leader in ship repair services, catering to the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and commercial shipping industries. Its modern facilities, including a dry dock for large vessels and an upcoming International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), reinforce its position as a strategic maritime hub. CSL has also been actively collaborating with global partners to enhance its technological expertise and expand its service offerings. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, the company continues to strengthen India’s maritime industry, contribute to economic growth, and support the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
