Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd (SDHI) has successfully completed the refit of the Indian Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel SAJAG ahead of its scheduled March 15 deadline. Initially planned from November 15, 2024, to March 15, 2025, the project was completed earlier than anticipated, following a successful sea trial. This accomplishment highlights Swan Defence’s growing expertise in ship repair and maintenance, further solidifying its position in the maritime industry.
A Step Towards Self-Reliance in Shipbuilding
Vivek Merchant, Director of Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd, expressed optimism about the future of the shipbuilding industry. He noted the ongoing transformative shift in the sector, which is driven by increased government investments in shipbuilding and defence infrastructure. Merchant emphasized that Swan Defence is positioning itself to play a crucial role in this evolving landscape.
“Our focus on modernization and self-reliance will not only enhance our ship repair capabilities but also pave the way for the resumption of full-scale shipbuilding operations,” said Merchant. The completion of the SAJAG refit marks a key milestone in the company’s strategic vision to expand beyond its traditional repair and maintenance operations.
Revival of the Shipyard
This successful refit of the SAJAG vessel also marks an important milestone in the revival of Swan Defence’s shipyard. The company, which was previously known as Reliance Naval and Engineering Ltd (RNEL), took on this new identity following a change of ownership in January 2024. Swan Defence became part of Swan Energy after an insolvency resolution process, signaling a fresh start and a renewed focus on advancing India’s maritime defence capabilities.
The company had earlier completed the refit of another Indian Coast Guard vessel, the fast patrol vessel Raj Ratan, which was the first ship to undergo refurbishment under Swan Defence’s management. This success demonstrated the company’s commitment to the restoration of India’s naval assets and its capabilities in ship repair and upgrades.
Strategic Collaboration with Krasny Defence Technologies
Swan Defence partnered with Krasny Defence Technologies Ltd, its official repair partner, to undertake the extensive overhaul of SAJAG. The collaboration provided the necessary expertise and technical support to ensure the timely and efficient completion of the project. This partnership was integral to meeting the rigorous demands of the refit, which included various essential processes such as berthing, dry docking, undocking, and other critical yard operations.
In addition to its technical expertise, Swan Defence’s commitment to strengthening India’s maritime defence infrastructure was evident throughout the refit process. The company aims to continue to expand its service offerings and reinforce the country’s strategic maritime capabilities.
Advanced Shipbuilding Infrastructure
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd stands at the forefront of India’s maritime and heavy engineering sector. Located on the country’s west coast, the company boasts a state-of-the-art shipyard equipped with a 662-meter by 65-meter dry dock, one of the largest in the country. The shipyard has a fabrication capacity of 144,000 tons annually, positioning Swan Defence as a key player in the global shipbuilding industry.
Swan Defence’s modern facilities and cutting-edge technology give it a competitive edge in the shipbuilding and heavy fabrication sectors. As the company strengthens its ship repair capabilities, it is also focused on expanding its shipbuilding operations to meet the growing demands of India’s defence and commercial maritime sectors.
Looking Ahead: Full-Scale Shipbuilding Operations
Looking ahead, Swan Defence aims to resume full-scale shipbuilding operations, building on its recent successes in ship repairs. The company’s growing capabilities and infrastructure position it well to meet the increasing demand for naval vessels and other maritime assets, both for national security and commercial purposes.
With a strategic focus on self-reliance, Swan Defence is committed to contributing significantly to India’s shipbuilding and maritime defence industries. By expanding its capabilities and embracing modernization, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in the continued growth of India’s defence and heavy engineering sectors. As the maritime landscape evolves, Swan Defence’s commitment to innovation and excellence will ensure its continued success in the global market.
