Mega dry dock with global ambitions

By Admin

24 May, 2025

In the fast-evolving maritime industry, where innovation, capacity, and sustainability dictate global relevance, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) has carved out a unique identity. With its massive dry dock infrastructure and cutting-edge shipbuilding capabilities, SDHI is not just meeting the growing demand—it's setting new benchmarks for the global shipbuilding and heavy engineering sector.

India’s Largest Dry Dock: A Powerhouse of Possibilities

SDHI’s shipyard is home to India’s largest dry dock, measuring a staggering 662 meters in length and 65 meters in width—a scale that allows it to accommodate vessels up to 400,000 DWT. This feat places SDHI among the elite few shipyards worldwide capable of handling such mammoth vessels. The dry dock supports a wide range of ship types, from Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) to Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs) and tugs.

Complemented by a state-of-the-art fabrication facility, SDHI is capable of executing highly complex shipbuilding and repair projects with precision and efficiency. This infrastructure not only reinforces India’s maritime capabilities but also positions SDHI as a strong contender on the global stage.

Bridging Vision with Innovation

“Our vision is to establish SDHI as a leading global player in shipbuilding and repair within the Asia-Pacific region,” says Vivek Merchant, Director at SDHI. This ambition is being realized through significant investments in modernization, including automation, digital twin technologies, and expanded fabrication capabilities tailored for specialized offshore engineering.

These innovations are designed to deliver faster, more efficient production cycles while adhering to the highest standards of safety, quality, and environmental compliance. The result: a shipyard ready to tackle 21st-century maritime challenges head-on.

A Strategic Maritime Hub

What sets SDHI further apart is its strategic location, which ensures seamless logistics for domestic and international clients. Supported by world-class infrastructure, SDHI is strengthening India’s position as a key marine hub in the region, promoting smoother global connectivity and greater supply chain resilience.

Advancing India’s Defence Ambitions

SDHI proudly holds the distinction of being the first private Indian shipyard to construct warships for the Ministry of Defence. This milestone marks the beginning of a transformative journey—one filled with both challenges and opportunities.

While transitioning from its legacy ownership, SDHI remains committed to upholding defence standards. The company is expanding production capabilities, investing in stealth and automation technologies, and building strategic partnerships with global defence manufacturers. All these steps are aligned with national initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, furthering the country’s ambition for self-reliance in naval defence.

Embracing Digital Transformation

SDHI is at the forefront of the digital revolution in shipbuilding. The integration of digital twin technology enables real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance of vessels during construction and operation. Meanwhile, automation-driven manufacturing processes enhance operational efficiency and reduce turnaround time.

The shipyard is also investing in advanced materials—like lightweight composites and high-strength steel—to enhance ship performance, reduce fuel consumption, and increase durability. These innovations collectively drive SDHI’s competitive edge and mark its transition into a leader of next-generation maritime technology.

Sustainable Shipbuilding for a Greener Tomorrow

Sustainability lies at the core of SDHI’s operations. The shipyard is pioneering the development of eco-friendly ships with hybrid propulsion systems, optimizing energy use, and incorporating emission control measures in its green manufacturing practices. The exploration of alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia showcases SDHI’s commitment to supporting global decarbonisation goals and positioning India at the forefront of green shipbuilding.

Adapting to Market Dynamics

With a portfolio that includes a diverse range of vessels, SDHI remains highly responsive to shifting commercial and naval market demands. The adoption of a modular shipbuilding approach allows it to tailor vessels to specific client needs—be it commercial shipping, offshore energy, or naval applications.

From building smaller vessels of up to 600 DWT on its pre-erection berth (PEB) to deploying Goliath Cranes for swift and safe launching, SDHI's infrastructure supports versatility and scalability. The shipyard also tracks global trends, such as increasing demand for larger, more fuel-efficient ships and specialized offshore support vessels, ensuring it remains ahead of the curve.

Conclusion

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) is more than a shipyard—it’s a symbol of India's rising stature in the global maritime industry. With its mega dry dock, commitment to innovation, and forward-looking strategy, SDHI is poised to shape the future of shipbuilding and reinforce India’s place on the global naval and commercial map.