Cochin Shipyard to build next-generation electric TRAnsverse tugs for Svitzer

Cochin, India and Copenhagen, Denmark – 8 December 2025. Svitzer, a leading global towage provider, and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), India’s largest public sector shipyard, have signed a shipbuilding agreement for four 26-metre electric TRAnsverse (“TRAnsverse 2600e”) tugs to be constructed in India for Svitzer’s global fleet renewal and growth plans. 

The agreement confirms a Letter of Intent signed in October 2025 at India Maritime Week and marks the move from intent to a contracted new build agreement. 

Under the agreement, CSL will build a minimum of four battery-electric TRAnsverse 2600e tugs for Svitzer, with an option for up to four additional vessels. The tugs will be constructed to Svitzer’s specifications at CSL’s facilities in Cochin to serve as global fleet renewal and advancement in operations worldwide. The vessels complement a wider newbuilding program of the TRAnsverse tug design, cementing Svitzer’s confidence in the vessel’s capabilities while also opening opportunities for future deployment in Indian ports and terminals. 

The deal brings together Svitzer’s global expertise in sustainable towage solutions with CSL’s proven shipbuilding capabilities, skilled workforce and local innovation. It supports India’s ambition to become a global maritime manufacturing and skills hub under Maritime India Vision 2030, Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and the “Make in India” initiative.  

The TRAnsverse 2600e tugs are the electric version of the next-generation tug design proving itself as the world’s most advanced and efficient tug. The ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of tugs: the TRAnsverse design can operate in complex and close-quarter operating contexts, with all ship types and sizes in challenging weather and tidal conditions. The vessels will feature battery-electric propulsion and offer port and terminal operations zero direct emissions during harbour operations when charged from green power sources.  

The tug’s patented staple with double-ended hull and in-line propulsion with omni-directional thrust expands the dynamic operating envelope in towage of up to 50%.   

Kasper Karlsen, Chief Operating Officer, Svitzer, said: 
“This contract with Cochin Shipyard for our next series of electric TRAnsverse tugs reflects our commitment to Make in India and to support port and terminal operations in their green transition and decarbonisation objectives.