Cochin Shipyard secures landmark electric tug order from Svitzer

Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) has won a significant international contract from Denmark-based towage major Svitzer for the construction of four next-generation, fully electric harbour tugs, with an option to build up to four more vessels.

The deal, valued between Rs 250 crore and Rs 500 crore, converts an earlier letter of intent into a firm contract and marks a major step forward for CSL in advanced green vessel construction.

Under the agreement, CSL will build the TRAnsverse 2600E tugs—26-metre-long, zero-emission harbour vessels capable of delivering a 70-ton bollard pull. Construction of the first four tugs is expected to begin shortly at CSL’s Kochi yard. The first delivery is planned from late 2027, with the remaining vessels to follow in sequence.

“These vessels represent the next generation of harbour tugs. This project reflects our growing capability in high-spec shipbuilding and the industrialisation of battery-electric and future-fuel-ready technologies in India,” said Dr Harikrishnan S, Operations Director, Cochin Shipyard Ltd.

Once delivered, the electric tugs will be deployed across environmentally sensitive markets such as northern Europe, South America and Australia, highlighting the global competitiveness of India-built green vessels.

The order aligns with Svitzer’s broader strategy to decarbonise its global fleet and support the maritime sector’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable operations, while reinforcing CSL’s position as a key player in the global green shipbuilding ecosystem.