India's Swan Defence signs $227m deal to build chemical tankers

The first tanker is expected within 33 months.

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has signed its first newbuild contract for six IMO Type II chemical tankers, each with a capacity of 18,000 DWT, to be constructed at its revitalised shipyard in Gujarat.

The $227m deal with European shipowner Rederiet Stenersen AS is the first and largest chemical tanker order awarded to an Indian shipyard.

An option for six additional vessels is included. The first tanker is expected within 33 months, with others delivered at regular intervals.

Designed by Marinform AS and StoGda Ship Design & Engineering and classed by DNV, the tankers will meet Ice Class 1A standards and feature dual-fuel LNG-ready hybrid propulsion with advanced automation.