In a major boost to India’s defence manufacturing and maritime strength, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) have signed an exclusive Teaming Agreement (TA) to design and build Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) for the Indian Navy.
The agreement was announced during the India Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai. This collaboration represents a strong example of Public–Private Partnership (PPP) and aligns perfectly with the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision to make India a global shipbuilding hub.
A Strategic Partnership for India’s Naval Power
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently approved the acquisition of LPDs — essential warships that enhance the Navy’s ability to conduct amphibious operations, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief (HADR) efforts.
Under this partnership:
- MDL, a Navratna company under the Ministry of Defence, will bring decades of expertise in ship design, project management, and system integration.
- SDHI, India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, will contribute its state-of-the-art shipyard infrastructure — the largest in the country.
Together, the two companies aim to deliver advanced, world-class LPDs designed and built entirely in India.
Building Ships for India, in India
This collaboration is expected to:
- Reduce construction timelines
- Enhance quality and cost efficiency
- Strengthen India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities
The partnership merges the innovation and flexibility of the private sector with the reliability and proven track record of the public sector, creating a powerful model for future defence projects.
Leadership Speaks
“We are excited to partner with MDL for this prestigious programme. Together, we aim to deliver technologically advanced platforms that will strengthen India’s blue-water capabilities,” said Mr. Vivek Merchant, Director, SDHI.
Capt. Jagmohan, Chairman & Managing Director, MDL, added, “This partnership marks a new chapter in Indian shipbuilding. By combining MDL’s design expertise with SDHI’s infrastructure, we are confident of setting new benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and timeliness.”
A Step Toward a Self-Reliant Maritime Future
The MDL–SDHI partnership showcases India’s growing confidence and capability in building complex defence platforms domestically. As India continues to expand its naval strength, collaborations like this one will play a critical role in ensuring strategic autonomy, economic growth, and technological leadership in shipbuilding.
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