Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) has signed a strategic partnership agreement with DNV to strengthen India’s maritime ecosystem and enhance shipbuilding capabilities through technology collaboration, classification support and industry development initiatives. The partnership aims to support the growth of India’s shipbuilding sector amid rising global demand for modern vessels and maritime infrastructure.
Under the collaboration, SDHI and DNV will work together on areas including vessel design optimisation, sustainability standards, digitalisation, marine engineering, regulatory compliance and advanced shipbuilding technologies. Industry officials said the partnership is expected to help accelerate the adoption of international best practices across Indian shipyards and maritime projects.
The agreement also focuses on supporting India’s ambitions to emerge as a stronger global player in shipbuilding, ship repair and maritime manufacturing under the government’s broader maritime development initiatives. Experts noted that partnerships with global classification societies such as DNV can improve quality standards, operational efficiency and export competitiveness for Indian-built vessels.
SDHI is currently involved in expanding its shipbuilding and heavy engineering capabilities, while DNV brings extensive expertise in maritime classification, technical advisory services and sustainability solutions for the global shipping industry. The collaboration is expected to support projects involving commercial vessels, offshore assets, green shipping technologies and future-ready marine infrastructure.
Maritime analysts said the partnership comes at a time when India is increasing investments in ports, shipyards, coastal infrastructure and maritime logistics to strengthen its position in global trade and shipping networks. Industry stakeholders believe such collaborations could play a key role in developing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, attracting international business and supporting the transition toward greener maritime operations.