Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU), has launched production for the first of a series of Multipurpose Cargo Vessels (MPV) for Navi Merchants, Denmark. The production process officially began with a ceremonial plate cutting event, where MDL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjeev Singhal and Navi Merchants CEO Simon Christensen jointly commenced the cutting of the first steel plate.

Under a newly signed contract, MDL will design and construct six MPVs for Navi Merchants, with an option to build four additional vessels.

Each ship will have a carrying capacity of 7,500 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT), and the overall project is estimated at $86.05 million (approximately Rs 700 crore). These vessels are being designed to feature hybrid propulsion systems, aligning with strict international emission standards and classified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

The MPVs will be built to Ice Class 1B standards and will include advanced features such as a controllable pitch propeller and a medium-speed diesel engine. Additionally, the vessels will incorporate Electrical Energy Storage systems, ensuring compliance with DNV’s safety notations for unrestricted global operations. The versatility of the ships will enable them to carry a diverse range of cargo, including dry bulk, project cargo, containers, steel, and hazardous materials.

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These MPVs have the capability to perform multi-role support functions which include maritime surveillance & patrol, surface and underwater targets for Gunnery/ ASW firing exercises, launching/ recovery of torpedoes and operation of various types of aerial.

The first vessel is expected to be completed by April 2026. This groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of an important collaboration between MDL and Navi Merchants, emphasizing MDL’s capacity to deliver cutting-edge maritime technology for global clients.

This project solidifies MDL’s position as a leading shipbuilder, combining innovation with environmental responsibility in the production of state-of-the-art cargo vessels.