CSL Begins Construction of Hybrid SOV for UK’s North Star Shipping

Quick Summary:

• Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) conducted the keel-laying ceremony for a hybrid service Operation Vessel (SOV) on August 20, 2025.
• The vessel is being built for North Star Shipping, a UK-based company headquartered in Aberdeen.
• Designed collaboratively with VARD AS of Norway, the SOV measures 68 meters and features advanced technologies such as:

– Hybrid-electric propulsion powered by lithium-ion batteries.
– Electric cycloidal propulsion for improved maneuverability.
– DP2-class dynamic positioning system and “walk-to-work” gangway arrangement for personnel safety during offshore operations.- Integrated logistics center catering to wind turbine maintenance along with warehouse facilities.

• This vessel is part of two SOVs CSL is constructing under DNV classification standards.
• Key officials present at the ceremony included James Bradford (CTO, North Star Shipping), Michael Reid (Head of Special Projects, North Star Shipping), and key representatives from CSL’s leadership team.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
Cochin Shipyard Limited’s collaboration with an international entity like North Star Shipping highlights India’s growing presence in global shipbuilding markets specializing in sustainable technology solutions such as hybrid-electric vessels. With increasing demand for clean energy applications-evident from its compatibility with offshore wind turbine maintenance-the project showcases India’s technical competence aligning toward green maritime industry practices.

For India, this progress signals potential economic benefits from enhanced exports and partnerships in high-value engineering projects that cater to evolving renewable energy sectors worldwide. Moreover, it adds momentum to local maritime industries at large-as exemplified by CSL’s innovations-which could stimulate domestic skill-building and technological advancements in eco-amiable naval construction moving forward.

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