A new generation of world-class shipyards is powering India’s maritime ambitions. Through advanced infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and expanding global order books, these shipyards are strengthening the country’s commercial and defence capabilities while positioning India as a competitive player in global shipbuilding. Here are five shipyards transforming the maritime landscape.
- Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
India’s largest public-sector shipyard, Cochin Shipyard has established itself as a leader in both commercial and defence shipbuilding. It built INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, and has delivered a wide range of tankers, passenger vessels, and offshore support vessels. CSL is also expanding its capabilities in ship repair, green vessels, and international collaborations, making it a key pillar of India’s maritime ecosystem. - Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
Mazagon Dock is India’s premier defence shipyard, known for constructing some of the country’s most advanced destroyers, frigates, and submarines. As a critical partner to the Indian Navy, MDL has been instrumental in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. Its expertise in complex naval platforms and continuous investment in modern shipbuilding technologies have made it one of India’s most strategic maritime assets. - Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI)
Located on the west coast of India, in Pipavav, Gujarat, the integrated maritime facility is home to India’s largest shipyard by dry dock and fabrication capacity, spread across 600 acres. Following its operational turnaround, the company has secured landmark export orders, including India’s first orders for six 18,000 DWT IMO Type II chemical tankers, four 92,500 DWT ammonia dual-fuel bulk carriers, and a defence training vessel for the Royal Navy of Oman. Backed by strategic collaborations with global maritime leaders such as Samsung Heavy Industries, Royal IHC, and DNV, SDHI is strengthening India’s capabilities in large commercial vessels, green shipping, and export-oriented shipbuilding. - Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)
With decades of expertise in naval shipbuilding, GRSE has delivered frigates, corvettes, survey vessels, landing craft, and patrol vessels for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. The shipyard has also expanded into export markets, supplying vessels to friendly foreign nations. Its focus on digital shipbuilding, modular construction, and innovation continues to reinforce India’s self-reliance in maritime manufacturing. - Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
Hindustan Shipyard has evolved into a key player in defence shipbuilding, submarine refits, and fleet maintenance. The shipyard supports strategic naval programmes while expanding its capabilities in vessel construction and life-cycle support. As India increases investments in indigenous defence production, HSL is expected to play an increasingly important role in enhancing naval readiness and maritime infrastructure.
Source: Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI)
