KMEW targets ₹3,000 crore bid pipeline amid fleet expansion
Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Ltd disclosed a ₹3,000 crore bid pipeline and confirmed 100% fleet utilization during an investor meet on June 19, 2026. The company is expanding its Saphale shipyard with a ₹300 crore investment and plans to raise ₹150–200 crore to fund the acquisition of larger dredgers and tugs.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works has outlined a robust growth trajectory backed by a ₹3,000 crore bid pipeline and full fleet utilization. The company, engaged in dredging, charter hire, and shipbuilding, shared its strategic outlook during an investor meet organized by Hem Securities Ltd. on June 19, 2026. Management emphasized the government's focus on maritime infrastructure as a key driver for future opportunities.
The company operates through three primary business verticals: dredging services, charter hire, and shipbuilding. Management highlighted that the Indian dredging industry is expected to grow at approximately 8.4% CAGR, with capital dredging demand projected to rise significantly by 2030. To capitalize on this, KMEW is focusing on green maritime initiatives, having secured two Green Tug contracts. Each Green Tug costs approximately ₹90 crore to construct, carries a 15-year contract tenure, and benefits from a 20% shipbuilding subsidy.
KMEW’s current order book stands strong across its segments. The company reported a total order book of approximately ₹1,633 crore, with charter hire contributing the largest share. Dredging accounts for 70% of the revenue mix, while shipbuilding contributes 21% and charter hire & ancillary services make up 7%. Management confirmed 100% utilization across dredging and charter hire assets, ensuring steady earnings visibility.
| Segment | Contract Value |
|---|---|
| Dredging | ~₹500 crore |
| Charter Hire | ~₹900 crore |
| Shipbuilding | ~₹233 crore |
Significant expansion is underway with the acquisition of 15 acres at Saphale (Palghar) near Vadhavan Port. The company plans a capital expenditure of approximately ₹300 crore across three phases over 2.5–3 years, with Phase-I expected to be operational next year. This facility will support Green Tug construction and future shipbuilding orders. For FY27, KMEW plans to acquire bigger capacity Trailing Suction Hopper Dredgers, Cutter Suction Dredgers, and Green and Conventional Tugs.
To finance this fleet expansion and larger dredger acquisitions, the company is evaluating an additional fund raise of ₹150–200 crore. This follows a previous ₹285 crore preferential allotment. The bid pipeline, estimated at ₹3,000 crore, includes projects expected from the Inland Waterways Authority of India and Dredging Corporation of India Limited. Management remains optimistic, citing Maritime Vision 2047 and inland waterway development as key enablers for sustained growth.
Historical Stock Returns for Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +12.74% | +21.55% | +16.26% | +43.13% | +177.77% | +121.36% |
How will the proposed fund raise of ₹150–200 crore impact KMEW’s leverage ratios and shareholder earnings in the near term?
What specific risks does KMEW face regarding the timely execution of the ₹3,000 crore bid pipeline given the competitive nature of government contracts?
How might the expiration of the 20% shipbuilding subsidy affect the profit margins on future Green Tug orders beyond the current two contracts?

































