KOCHI: Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cochin Shipyard Limited under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has achieved another milestone in indigenous shipbuilding with the on-time delivery of the third vessel in a 15-vessel series of 70-tonne Bollard Pull Tugs to Ocean Sparkle Limited (OSL), part of the Adani Group, on September 28, 2026.
The 70T Bollard Pull Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) Tug has been developed in compliance with the Approved Standard Tug Design and Specifications (ASTDS) framework established by the Indian Ports Association (IPA), supporting the adoption of standardised and modern tug designs for port operations.
Designed by Robert Allan Ltd., Canada, the vessel is classed by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The tug measures 33 metres in length with a beam of 12.2 metres and is powered by two main engines, each delivering approximately 1,838 kW. Together, the propulsion system enables the vessel to achieve a rated 70-tonne bollard pull, making it suitable for demanding harbour and marine support operations.
A key highlight of the project is the vessel’s rapid completion following launch. The tug was delivered within just 47 days of launching, meeting the committed delivery schedule. The achievement demonstrates UCSL’s focus on production planning, streamlined shipbuilding processes, disciplined execution and schedule adherence.
The delivery of the third tug also marks further progress in the ongoing 15-vessel construction programme, strengthening UCSL’s capabilities in building specialised harbour craft for India’s maritime sector.
The milestone reflects the growing role of Indian shipyards in meeting the country’s requirements for modern marine assets and contributes to the broader objective of strengthening domestic shipbuilding capacity under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
With continued emphasis on quality, productivity and timely delivery, UCSL is further establishing its capabilities as an important contributor to India’s indigenous shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure development.
Key Highlights:
Third 70T Bollard Pull Tug delivered to Ocean Sparkle Limited
Part of a 15-vessel tug series
70-tonne Bollard Pull ASD Tug
33-metre length | 12.2-metre beam
Twin main engines of approximately 1,838 kW each
Designed by Robert Allan Ltd., Canada
Classed by Indian Register of Shipping
Delivered just 47 days after launching
Built in compliance with the IPA’s ASTDS framework
