Fincantieri to build fleet tanker for Indian navy

Fincantieri has won an order to build a fleet tanker for the Indian Navy against strong competition from leading international players, especially from Russia and Korea.

The vessel, which will be built at the shipyards in Liguria, is scheduled for delivery at the end of 2010 and will be 175 metres long, 25 wide and 19 deep and will have a displacement at full load of 27,500 tonnes. The ship will be powered by two 10,000 kW diesel engines which will enable it to reach a maximum speed of 20 knots and its propulsion system will feature CP propellers. There will also be a flight deck on board for medium-heavy helicopters and accommodation for up to 248 passengers, crew and supplementary personnel. Equipped with double hatches, the vessel will be able to service four ships at the same time.

In accordance with IMO’s new Marpol regulations, this will be the first ship of its type to be built with a double hull thereby improving protection of the fuel tanks and avoiding the risk of pollution in case of collision or damage.