In a significant advance for India’s maritime manufacturing and green shipping aspirations, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has entered into a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Denmark’s Svitzer to collaboratively produce next-generation electric TRAnsverse tugboats in India.
The agreement was ratified during the India Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai, highlighting a landmark moment in Svitzer’s global electrification strategy and showcasing India’s burgeoning role as a hub for sustainable shipbuilding.
This partnership will leverage CSL’s cutting-edge shipbuilding capabilities along with Svitzer’s extensive 200-year legacy in global towage. Together, the two entities aim to manufacture highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly tugboats that will service both domestic ports and Svitzer’s international ventures.
At the heart of this collaboration is the TRAnsverse tug concept, renowned for its exceptional manoeuvrability, precise control, and lower emissions. This design is particularly suited for operations in constrained port environments, as it focuses on reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental impact, thus aligning seamlessly with India’s initiatives toward Green Ports and Green Towage.
CSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Madhu S. Nair, emphasized that this partnership will enhance local supply chains, promote the development of indigenous expertise, and expedite India’s journey towards sustainable maritime solutions.
Meanwhile, Svitzer’s CEO, Kasper Nilaus, pointed out that the cooperation aligns perfectly with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and the overarching Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. This partnership affirms a mutual commitment to achieving cleaner and more efficient harbor operations globally.
Ultimately, this alliance represents a strategic move towards decarbonizing port operations while solidifying India’s position as a global leader in the construction of advanced green maritime vessels.
