India's Cochin Shipyard (CSL) has begun construction of four 26-metre battery-powered tugs in a series ordered by Danish towage operator Svitzer.
The tugs will utilise a design developed by Canadian naval architecture firm Robert Allan Ltd (RAL).
The agreement between Svitzer and CSL calls for the construction of four firm tugs plus options for up to four additional vessels.
The tugs will be constructed to Svitzer’s specifications. All four will be deployed as part of the owner's global fleet.
Svitzer said the vessels will complement a wider newbuilding program of the RAL tug design. The tugs will each feature a double-ended hull and in-line propulsion capable of omni-directional thrust.
The first four vessels under the agreement are expected to begun construction over the coming months, with the first delivery scheduled for late 2027.
Svitzer said further vessels may follow in line with the company's fleet renewal plans and customer demand.
Four additional RAL-designed 32-metre tugs will also be built in India for Svitzer.
