SDHI signs letter of intent with European ship owner Rederiet Stenersen AS

By Admin

11 Nov, 2025

A Major Milestone in India’s Shipbuilding Export Journey

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, has achieved another landmark by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) with European ship owner and operator Rederiet Stenersen AS for the construction of six IMO Type II chemical tankers, each with a capacity of 18,000 DWT. This project, valued at approximately $220 million, also includes an option for an additional six vessels, marking a significant step in advancing India’s maritime manufacturing exports.

State-of-the-Art Construction at Pipavav, Gujarat

The vessels will be built at SDHI’s state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility in Pipavav, Gujarat, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a global maritime hub. Designed by Marinform AS & StoGda of Norway and classed by DNV, the vessels will meet the highest international standards. Each ship will be built to Ice Class 1A specifications, ensuring superior performance in cold and demanding environments.

Innovation through Hybrid and Future-Ready Design

SDHI’s chemical tankers will feature an advanced hybrid propulsion system that supports multiple operational modes. With cutting-edge automation, the system enhances manoeuvrability, reduces emissions, and offers greater operational flexibility. Moreover, the vessels are future-ready, with designs that allow conversion to methanol or LNG fuel. They also include provisions for battery upgrades up to 5,000-kWh, further improving energy efficiency and adaptability to future green technologies.

A Step Towards India’s Maritime Vision

Speaking on the occasion, Vivek Merchant, Director of SDHI, stated, “This partnership marks a defining moment for SDHI and Indian shipbuilding our first major export of advanced chemical tankers to Norway. We see this as a step towards realizing India’s maritime ambitions by building large and complex vessels across tankers, bulkers, and specialized segments. The trust placed in us by Rederiet Stenersen AS reflects global confidence in India’s shipbuilding capabilities and SDHI’s commitment to deliver world-class, future-ready vessels.”

The LoI signing was witnessed by Vivek Merchant, Rear Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena (Retd), CEO of SDHI, and Sigve Stenersen and John Stenersen representing Rederiet Stenersen AS. Detailed timelines and commercial terms will be finalized in the forthcoming shipbuilding contract.

About Rederiet Stenersen AS

Founded in 1974, Rederiet Stenersen AS is a well-established European shipping company that owns and operates 19 chemical/product tankers ranging from 16,000 to 19,000 DWT, primarily trading in Northern Europe. The company is widely recognized for its high standards in vessel quality, environmental compliance, and operational excellence   making it an ideal partner for SDHI’s expansion into the global shipbuilding market.

Conclusion

The collaboration between SDHI and Rederiet Stenersen AS underscores the growing global recognition of India’s shipbuilding prowess. With Pipavav, Gujarat, emerging as a center for advanced maritime construction, this agreement sets a strong precedent for future export opportunities and strengthens India’s position in the international shipbuilding industry.