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In a significant shift in global maritime dynamics, European countries are increasingly partnering with Indian shipyards to construct next-generation vessels. This trend reflects rising international confidence in India’s advanced shipbuilding capabilities and its emergence as a credible player in the global maritime industry.
GRSE Secures Twin European Partnerships
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), a premier defence shipyard based in Kolkata, has recently inked two landmark agreements with leading firms from Sweden and Denmark—marking its foray into the global commercial and cruise shipbuilding segments.
In a strategic first, GRSE signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden’s Berg Propulsion, a renowned manufacturer of marine propulsion systems. The partnership aims to jointly develop and manufacture cutting-edge propulsion equipment for both defence and commercial maritime applications. The agreement, signed at Berg’s headquarters, heralds a new phase of Indo-Swedish maritime collaboration.
Simultaneously, GRSE entered into an MoU with Sunstone Maritime Group, a leading Danish supplier of expedition cruise vessels. Signed in Copenhagen, the agreement enables GRSE to expand into the high-value cruise ship sector, marking a significant diversification beyond its traditional defence-centric portfolio.
GRSE Signs Strategic MoUs in Denmark and Sweden
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) signed two strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in Denmark and Sweden.
On 05 June 2025, an MoU was signed between GRSE and Berg Propulsion, a global leader in the… pic.twitter.com/s7FOIVzvXA
— GRSE – Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (@OfficialGRSE) June 9, 2025
MDL’s Danish Contract Underscores Growing Global Role
Complementing GRSE’s European engagements, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL)—another major Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU)—achieved a major breakthrough in 2024 with a contract from Denmark’s Navi Merchants for the construction of a new class of multi-purpose cargo vessels (MPVs).
The deal covers the design and construction of six MPVs, with an option for four additional ships, potentially increasing the total order to ten vessels. Valued at approximately $86.05 million (around ₹700 crore), the vessels are intended for global deployment and will be built to Ice Class 1B specifications, ensuring operations in sub-zero, ice-prone waters.
Each vessel will boast a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 7,500 and feature advanced hybrid propulsion systems, including controllable pitch propellers, medium-speed diesel engines, and integrated electrical energy storage systems. The design complies with stringent international emission standards and will be classed by Det Norske Veritas (DNV).
The project officially commenced with a ceremonial steel-cutting event in early 2025, attended by MDL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjeev Singhal and Navi Merchants CEO Simon Christensen. The first vessel is slated for delivery by April 2026, potentially laying the foundation for a long-term Indo-European shipbuilding partnership.
Team BharatShakti
