Swan Defence Completes SAJAG Refit Ahead of Deadline, Strengthens Shipbuilding Capabilities

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited
Image Courtesy: Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd announced on Friday the early completion of the refit for the Indian Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel SAJAG, ahead of its scheduled March 15 deadline. The refit, originally planned from November 15, 2024, to March 15, 2025, was completed ahead of time following a successful sea trial, reaffirming Swan Defence’s expertise in efficient ship repair and maintenance.

“As the industry sees a transformative shift with increased government investments in shipbuilding and defence infrastructure, we are positioned to play a vital role in this evolution,” said Vivek Merchant, Director of Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd. He added that with a focus on modernization and self-reliance, the company aims to expand its capabilities beyond ship repairs and resume full-scale shipbuilding operations.

The company, formerly known as Reliance Naval and Engineering Ltd (RNEL), highlighted that the dry docking and refit of SAJAG mark a key milestone in the revival of its shipyard. This follows the successful refit of the Indian Coast Guard’s fast patrol vessel Raj Ratan, the first vessel to undergo refurbishment under Swan Defence’s management.

Swan Defence, which came under Swan Energy’s control in January last year following an insolvency resolution process, collaborated with its official repair partner, Krasny Defence Technologies Ltd, to execute the extensive three-month overhaul. As part of the refit process, Swan Defence provided end-to-end services, including berthing, dry docking, undocking, and other critical yard operations, demonstrating its commitment to strengthening India’s maritime defence capabilities.

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited, India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, is located on the country’s west coast. With a modern shipyard featuring a 662m x 65m dry dock and a fabrication capacity of 144,000 tons annually, SDHI stands at the forefront of maritime and heavy engineering innovation.

The company is committed to excellence, utilizing cutting-edge technology and world-class infrastructure to deliver high-quality solutions across the maritime and heavy fabrication sectors. Swan Defence is set to play a key role in advancing India’s maritime economy and industrial capabilities.