UDUPI: Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL) launched the first of eight 6,300-deadweight-tonne dry cargo vessels being built for Norway-based Wilson ASA at its Malpe shipyard on October 26.
The 99-metre-long vessel is the largest built at the shipyard since UCSL was incorporated in 2021. The launch marks a key milestone in the international shipbuilding project.
Three construction milestones achieved
Wilson ASA chairman Eivind Eidesvik and his daughter Anna Eidesvik jointly launched the vessel. The shipyard also laid the keel for the third vessel in the series and began steel cutting for the fourth.
The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in December 2026. The overall contract covers eight vessels and is valued at approximately ₹1,100 crore.
Designed for fuel efficiency
Designed by Netherlands-based Conoship International BV, the vessel measures 15.85 metres in width and has a cargo hold capacity of 3,16,278 cubic feet.
The diesel-electric vessel is designed to transport general cargo in European coastal waters. Its design focuses on fuel efficiency and reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
Strengthening India-Norway maritime ties
The project builds on UCSL’s earlier work for Wilson ASA, for which the shipyard delivered six 3,800-deadweight-tonne dry cargo vessels. The first of those vessels was delivered in April 2025.
Norwegian Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener attended the programme, while Union Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar joined through video conferencing. Officials from the Karnataka government, Cochin Shipyard Limited and UCSL were also present.
The launch highlights UCSL’s growing role in international shipbuilding and its partnership with a major European short-sea shipping operator. The remaining vessels are expected to be completed as the project progresses.