India’s maritime dream alive as SDHI wins $220m export deal

The agreement, valued at approximately $220 million, includes an option for a further six vessels of the same type.

The vessels will be built at SDHI’s shipyard in Pipavav, Gujarat, and designed by Marinform AS of Norway. Classification will be undertaken by DNV. Each ship will be constructed to Ice Class 1A standards and equipped with a hybrid propulsion system designed to enhance manoeuvrability, reduce emissions and increase operational flexibility.

The design incorporates readiness for future fuels, allowing conversion to methanol or LNG propulsion. Provision has also been made for the installation of battery systems of up to 5,000 kWh capacity, offering scope for improved environmental performance and adaptability to emerging technologies.

Commenting on the LoI, Vivek Merchant, director of SDHI, described the agreement as a milestone for the company and for Indian shipbuilding, representing its first major export of advanced chemical tankers to Norway. The signing took place in the presence of Mr Merchant and Rear Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena (Retd), CEO of SDHI, together with Sigve Stenersen and John Stenersen of Rederiet Stenersen AS.

Delivery schedules and final commercial terms will be confirmed in the subsequent shipbuilding contract.

Founded in 1974, Rederiet Stenersen AS operates a fleet of 19 chemical and product tankers ranging from 16,000 to 19,000 dwt, primarily trading in Northern Europe. The company is recognised for maintaining high standards of vessel quality and environmental performance suited to North European operations.