In a major boost to India’s maritime manufacturing and green shipping goals, Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Denmark-based Svitzer to jointly manufacture next-generation electric TRAnsverse tugboats in India.
The agreement, formalised during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, marks a key milestone in Svitzer’s global electrification roadmap and underscores India’s growing role as a sustainable shipbuilding hub.
Under this partnership, CSL will combine its advanced shipbuilding capabilities with Svitzer’s 200 years of global towage expertise to produce some of the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly tugboats ever built. The vessels will serve both domestic ports and Svitzer’s international operations.
The TRAnsverse tug concept, central to this collaboration, offers exceptional manoeuvrability, precision control, and reduced emissions, making it ideal for operations in confined port waters. These tugs are designed to minimise energy use and environmental impact, aligning with India’s Green Port and Green Towage initiatives.
CSL Chairman and Managing Director Madhu S. Nair said the tie-up will strengthen local supply chains, promote indigenous expertise, and accelerate India’s transition to sustainable maritime solutions.
Svitzer CEO Kasper Nilaus noted that the partnership aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, reaffirming a shared commitment to cleaner and more efficient harbour operations worldwide.
The alliance signifies a strategic step towards decarbonising port operations and positions India as a global leader in building advanced green maritime vessels.
