GRSE Begins Construction of Third Multi-Purpose Vessel for German Company
Synopsis
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) has laid the groundwork for the third multi-purpose vessel for Germany's Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler. This marks a significant development in India's shipbuilding industry, furthering the Union government's vision of global leadership in maritime engineering.
Key Takeaways
GRSE has laid the foundation for the third MPV for Carsten Rehder, enhancing India’s shipbuilding capabilities.
The project involves a total of 12 multi-purpose vessels .
Each vessel will carry 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo, equipped for bulk and project loads.
The initiative aligns with the Make in India vision.
GRSE is collaborating with several German firms for this project.
Kolkata, Feb 23 (NationPress) In alignment with the Union government's aspirations to transform India into a prominent global shipbuilding center, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Defence, officially initiated the construction of the third multi-purpose vessel (MPV) for Germany's Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG on Monday.
GRSE is committed to building a total of 12 MPVs for this esteemed client.
While the primary focus of the shipyard remains on warship construction, it has successfully expanded into the realm of commercial shipbuilding, embodying the Union government's vision of "Make in India, Make for the World."
This project represents the largest commercial vessel contract GRSE has ever secured.
The foundation-laying ceremony saw participation from senior officials of both GRSE and Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG.
The undertaking involves designing and constructing an advanced series of high-performance vessels under the CORAL 7500 DWT MPV series, developed in close collaboration between GRSE and Carsten Rehder.
The initial agreement for four vessels was established on June 22, 2024, with subsequent contracts raising the total to twelve vessels.
The final agreements for the ninth to twelfth Hybrid Propulsion MPVs were finalized on September 19, 2025.
Each MPV is designed to measure 120 meters in overall length, 17 meters in beam, and a draught of 5.85 meters.
These vessels are capable of transporting 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo, featuring a single, spacious cargo hold suitable for bulk, general, and project cargoes.
A significant aspect of the design includes the ability to transport containers on hatch covers and multiple large windmill blades on the deck, thereby enhancing operational adaptability.
This initiative is being developed in close partnership with various German firms, including F.H. Bertling, ForestWave Navigation/Schulte and Bruns, and Delft Shipping.
Technical design support has been provided by Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS), in collaboration with GRSE.
The vessels will receive certification from the classification society Det Norske Veritas.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the strategic importance of GRSE's latest venture in the context of India's broader ambitions in the shipbuilding industry. This initiative not only signifies a milestone in bilateral cooperation with Germany but also showcases India's commitment to enhancing its capabilities in commercial shipbuilding, aligning with national interests.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of GRSE's new vessel project?
The project underscores India's ambition to become a global shipbuilding hub, enhancing its commercial shipbuilding capabilities while fostering international partnerships.
How many vessels is GRSE constructing for Carsten Rehder?
GRSE is constructing a total of 12 multi-purpose vessels for Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG.
What are the specifications of the new vessels?
Each vessel will be 120 meters long, 17 meters wide, and capable of carrying 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo.
When was the initial contract for the vessels signed?
The initial contract for four vessels was signed on June 22, 2024.
Who provides technical design expertise for the project?
Technical design support is provided by Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) in partnership with GRSE.
