Cochin Shipyard's proposed steel block plant to boost shipbuilding output: Here is how

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) is planning to set up a new Block Fabrication Facility (BFF) near the Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal.

The construction of the BFF, which would manufacture steel blocks—a vital component in shipbuilding—is expected to improve the CSL's existing supply chain.

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The new BFF boasts a production rate of 1,20,000 metric tonnes (MT) per annum, in comparison to the Kerala-based shipbuilder's existing plant, in which steel blocks can be produced at a rate of 20,000 MT per annum.

The increased production would help the CSL build larger vessels like Suezmax tankers, container ships, and Capesize bulk carriers from its newest dry dock, the Centre said in a press release.

CSL CMD Madhu S. Nair told Malayala Manorama that the new facility would boost shipbuilding speeds, as the BFF would make bigger quantities of steel blocks available sooner.

Expected to be completed within two years, the first phase of the Rs 3,700 crore project, inked in September 2025, involves the acquisition of 80 acres of suitable land under the Cochin Port Authority.

The shipbuilder's move towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' is also expected to generate around 2,000 direct jobs, in addition to "substantial indirect employment".

Strategic collaboration with a Korean shipbuilder

At around the same time as the BFF construction project was finalised, CSL also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), a leading Korean shipbuilder, for a long-term strategic collaboration with India.

"This partnership seeks to combine CSL’s legacy, infrastructure, and domestic expertise with HD KSOE’s advanced technology and global experience, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s shipbuilding capabilities," the earlier press release added.

Cochin Shipyard's newest vessels

The construction procedures of the BFF come amid the unveiling of the CSL's three new vessels on Saturday.

The most important of the three is the INS Magdala, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) for the Indian Navy.

The other vessels are the DCI Godavari, India's largest dredger vessel, and a Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV).

Maritime