Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) has unveiled plans for a large-scale expansion set to double its shipbuilding capacity within the next 4-5 years. The ambitious initiative, backed by a Rs 5,000 crore (approximately $600 million) investment, will focus on developing state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a new dry dock facility to meet growing demands for advanced naval vessels.
The centerpiece of this expansion is a cutting-edge dry dock measuring 180 m in length and 60 m in width. This facility, designed to handle some of the largest ships and submarines in the Indian Navy’s arsenal, will significantly bolster MDL’s ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously. The new infrastructure is expected to streamline operations, accelerate production timelines, and enable MDL to undertake more sophisticated projects.
The expansion aligns with the Indian Navy’s extensive fleet modernization drive, which includes flagship projects like the P-17A frigates and Scorpene-class submarines. The advanced dry dock facility will complement MDL’s existing setup, allowing the construction and servicing of larger, more complex vessels. By reducing bottlenecks and enhancing flexibility, MDL will be better equipped to support the Navy’s push for a robust and technologically advanced fleet by the late 2030s.
Additionally, MDL’s expanded capacity will allow it to fulfill more export orders, enhancing India’s footprint in the global defense market. As demand rises from friendly nations for high-quality, Indian-built naval platforms, the upgraded shipyard will enable MDL to cater to these needs while reinforcing India’s role as a key player in global defense diplomacy.
The newly added dry dock will not only accommodate larger ships but also reduce project wait times, allowing MDL to deliver vessels on tighter schedules. This will be critical as India pursues self-reliance in defense manufacturing and ramps up its naval strength to address regional security challenges.