Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) has taken a significant step forward in its global shipbuilding endeavors by signing a contract with Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler und Reederei GmbH & Co. KG, a German company, for the construction of four Hybrid Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs). The deal, valued at USD 62.44 million, was inked on September 19, 2025, in Hamburg, Germany.

Contract Details

The contract encompasses the construction of four Hybrid MPVs, with a provision for an additional two vessels. These state-of-the-art ships will feature:

• Length: 120 meters
• Width: 17 meters
• Maximum draft: 6.75 meters
• Cargo capacity: 7,500 metric tonnes in a single large cargo hold
• Flexible cargo handling capabilities for bulk, general, and project cargoes
• Ability to carry containers on hatch covers
• Unique design to transport multiple large windmill blades on deck

Advanced Technology and Sustainability

The newly contracted Hybrid MPVs will incorporate:

• Battery-assisted hybrid propulsion systems
• Enhanced fuel efficiency
• Alignment with International Maritime Organization (IMO) decarbonization goals

These features underscore GRSE's commitment to green shipbuilding and sustainable maritime solutions.

Project Timeline and Scope

The project is scheduled for completion within 33 to 42 months from the contract's effective date. This agreement builds upon GRSE's existing partnership with Carsten Rehder, following their ongoing 7,500 DWT Multi-Purpose Vessel project currently under execution in Kolkata.

Strategic Importance

Cdr Shantanu Bose, IN (Retd), Director (Shipbuilding) at GRSE, and Mr. Thomas Rehder, Managing Director of Carsten Rehder, signed the contract in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. This deal reinforces GRSE's commitment to the 'Make in India, Make for World' vision and expands the company's global footprint in commercial and green shipbuilding.

GRSE's Growing International Presence

The MPV program with Carsten Rehder has seen steady growth:

• Initial contract for four vessels signed in June 2024
• Subsequent agreements in September 2024, December 2024, and March 2025, bringing the total to eight vessels
• Steel cutting for the CORAL 7500 DWT MPV series commenced on April 17, 2025

This latest contract further cements GRSE's position in the international commercial vessel segment and showcases its capabilities in constructing advanced, environmentally-friendly ships for the global market.

As GRSE continues to expand its international portfolio, this contract marks another milestone in the company's journey towards becoming a global leader in shipbuilding, particularly in the realm of sustainable maritime solutions.

The Indian Navy has strengthened its maritime defense capabilities with the addition of 'Androth', the second in a series of eight anti-submarine warfare-shallow water craft (ASW-SWC). Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, the vessel was delivered on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in India's naval modernization efforts.

Advanced Features and Capabilities

The 77-meter Androth represents a leap forward in India's naval technology:

• It is the largest Indian Naval warship powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination
• Equipped with state-of-the-art lightweight torpedoes
• Features indigenous anti-submarine warfare rockets
• Designed to enhance anti-submarine and coastal surveillance capabilities

Supporting 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' Initiative

Aligning with the government's vision of self-reliance, Androth showcases India's growing prowess in indigenous defense manufacturing:

• Over 80% of the ship's content is indigenously sourced
• Contributes significantly to the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative

Strategic Importance

The induction of Androth comes at a crucial time:

• Aims to boost India's maritime capabilities
• Addresses the increasing presence of China in the Indian Ocean region
• Strengthens the nation's anti-submarine warfare and coastal surveillance

Symbolic Naming

The ship derives its name from Androth Island, part of the Lakshadweep archipelago, reflecting India's maritime heritage and strategic island territories.

Part of a Larger Fleet

Androth is the second of eight planned ASW-SWC vessels, indicating a sustained effort to modernize and expand India's naval fleet. As these ships continue to be inducted, they are expected to play a vital role in strengthening India's maritime security architecture.

The delivery of Androth underscores India's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities through indigenous production, ensuring better preparedness to address evolving maritime challenges in the region.