Ocean Sparkle Ltd, the marine services subsidiary of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), has entered into a shipbuilding agreement with Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited for the construction of four advanced 70-tonne bollard pull ASD (Azimuth Stern Drive) tugboats.
The move forms part of APSEZ’s broader strategy to strengthen and modernise its marine services fleet while simultaneously supporting the growth of India’s domestic shipbuilding industry. The latest order also aligns with the country’s long-term vision of emerging as a globally competitive maritime and shipbuilding hub.
Designed for high manoeuvrability and operational efficiency, the new-generation ASD tugboats will support critical harbour and terminal operations across APSEZ-managed ports. The vessels are expected to improve navigational assistance, vessel handling capabilities and overall operational safety within busy port environments.
The collaboration highlights the increasing role of Indian shipyards in delivering technologically advanced marine assets for the nation’s port sector. By partnering with Udupi Cochin Shipyard Ltd, APSEZ and Ocean Sparkle are reinforcing efforts toward self-reliance, indigenous manufacturing and capacity expansion within the maritime ecosystem.
The agreement comes amid accelerated investments by APSEZ in marine infrastructure and fleet augmentation. The company has already placed five tugboat orders within the first two months of FY 2026–27, reflecting growing operational requirements linked to rising cargo volumes and port expansion activities.
The initiative also supports the wider objective of strengthening local supply chains and enhancing India’s maritime engineering capabilities. Through the integration of advanced marine technology and domestic shipbuilding expertise, the partnership is expected to contribute to more resilient, efficient and future-ready port operations across the country.