Mumbai-listed Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) is set to secure a major contract from the Indian Navy for the construction of six large survey vessels in a deal estimated to be worth around ₹6,000 crore, according to multiple sources familiar with the development.
The state-run shipbuilder has emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) for the prestigious order, quoting below ₹1,000 crore per vessel in its financial bid, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said. The competitive pricing is understood to have given CSL an edge in the tightly contested tender process.
The Indian Navy is expected to formally announce the outcome of the bidding process shortly and declare the winning shipyard.
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipbuilding was the second lowest bidder in the tender, sources added.
The proposed large survey vessels are expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s hydrographic survey capabilities, supporting maritime navigation, coastal development, and strategic operations. These vessels will play a crucial role in conducting detailed oceanographic and hydrographic mapping, vital for both defence preparedness and safe maritime trade.
If confirmed, the order would further strengthen Cochin Shipyard’s position in India’s defence shipbuilding sector and add to its growing portfolio of high-value naval projects. The contract would also reinforce the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative aimed at boosting indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports.
Cochin Shipyard declined to comment on the development.
The anticipated contract marks another step forward in India’s efforts to modernise its naval fleet and expand domestic shipbuilding capabilities.