Kolkata: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd took a significant step in its global expansion efforts with the keel laying of the second vessel under the Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project for Germany’s Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG on December 29, 2025. The project underscores GRSE’s commitment to the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision, highlighting its focus on diversifying products and entering the international commercial shipbuilding market.
Largest MPV Contract in GRSE History
This project represents the largest MPV contract in GRSE’s history, initially contracted for four vessels in June 2024. Subsequent agreements expanded the order to twelve vessels, including the ninth to twelfth Hybrid Propulsion MPVs, signed in September 2025. The keel laying ceremony was attended by Mr. M Venkatesh Murthy, Chief General Manager, CSB, GRSE, and Mr. Sujoy Chakravorty, Chief General Manager, Commercial, GRSE, along with senior GRSE officials and representatives from the German shipping company and DNV, the classification society.
Advanced Design and Specifications
The MPVs are part of the CORAL 7500 DWT series, designed as high-performance modern vessels. Each ship will measure 120 metres in length with a beam of 17 metres and a draught of 5.85 metres. Capable of carrying 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo, these vessels feature a single, large cargo hold suitable for bulk, general, and project cargoes.
A notable innovation is the vessels’ flexibility to carry containers on hatch covers and transport large windmill blades on deck, enhancing versatility in cargo handling for global shipping operations.
Collaboration with German Firms and Design Expertise
The project is being executed in close collaboration with F.H. Bertling, ForestWave Navigation/Schulte & Bruns, and Delft Shipping. Technical design and engineering expertise is provided by SEDS in partnership with GRSE, ensuring compliance with international standards. All vessels will be certified by DNV, highlighting adherence to global quality and safety benchmarks.
About Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE)
GRSE Ltd is a premier Indian shipbuilding company with a legacy of constructing high-quality vessels for defense and commercial markets. Over the years, the shipyard has expanded its portfolio to include warships, patrol vessels, and commercial ships, contributing to India’s self-reliance in shipbuilding while progressively entering the global maritime market.
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