Building Maritime Dreams: Swan Defence Hooks Samsung for Shipyard Power Play

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd (SDHI), India’s largest shipyard by dock capacity, and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), one of the world's largest shipbuilders, have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on shipbuilding and offshore engineering projects. This alliance marks a key step in strengthening India's maritime industry and aligns with the government's ambitious plan to position India among the top global shipbuilding nations by 2047.

 

Strategic Partnership

 

The MoU was signed on September 26, 2025, between SDHI, located in Gujarat, and SHI of South Korea, to collaborate on engineering, procurement, and project management in shipbuilding and offshore projects.

 

This agreement aims to establish SHI’s production foothold in the Indian market with gradual business expansion.

 

Infrastructure and Capacity

 

SDHI operates India’s largest dry dock (662m by 65m) and holds about 30% of the country’s shipbuilding capacity, capable of constructing very large crude carriers (VLCCs) and offshore facilities.

 

Samsung Heavy Industries brings significant technological expertise and a wide global network to the partnership.

 

Government Support and Industry Growth

 

The MoU follows a ₹69,725 crore government package to boost the shipbuilding sector, including financial assistance, maritime development funds, and infrastructure status benefits for large ships built in India.

 

India aims to become a top 10 shipbuilding nation by 2030 and a top 5 by 2047, with plans to secure 1,000 commercial vessels in the next decade.

 

Broader Context

 

The partnership is part of wider industry collaboration with other Korean firms like HD Hyundai signing similar deals with Indian shipyards.

 

Samsung Heavy Industries is also expanding its global partnerships with other strategic allies such as the US-based Vigor Marine Group.

 

Statements

 

Namgung Geum-sung of SHI highlighted the win-win model created through this partnership blending technology and market presence.

 

SDHI CEO Vipin Kumar Saxena expressed enthusiasm about exploring new business opportunities with SHI.

 

Sources: Economic Times, Korea JoongAng Daily, Maritime Gateway, Official press release on NSE website