Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) is scaling up infrastructure, technology, and programme readiness as India’s maritime ambitions enter a decisive phase under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
A Miniratna CPSE under the Ministry of Defence, HSL is positioning itself as a preferred shipyard to meet India’s evolving maritime and strategic requirements through advanced infrastructure, skilled manpower as well as expanding global partnerships.
Legacy and Capability Expansion
Established in 1941, HSL brings with it a shipbuilding legacy spanning more than eight decades. It began as a conventional yard and has now gradually developed into a full-spectrum maritime enterprise. It delivers complex naval platforms, submarine refits, ship repairs and advanced vessels. This evolution has strengthened India’s domestic shipbuilding base as well as extended HSL’s reach within the global maritime sector.
Infrastructure Modernisation and Capacity Augmentation
To support the requirements of next-generation shipbuilding, HSL is carrying out significant infrastructure upgrades. Key initiatives include the extension of the existing slipway and the installation of a 300-ton Goliath crane, scheduled to become operational by May 2026.
These enhancements will support heavy-lift operations and streamline the assembly of large and technologically complex platforms—substantially increasing the shipyard’s tonnage-handling capability.
Alongside this, HSL is upgrading its facilities through brownfield expansion under the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy. The modernisation effort is expected to improve operational capability, shorten construction timelines and raise overall productivity.
Leadership Perspective
Speaking on the shipyard’s transformation, Cmde Girideep Singh, IN (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director, HSL, said-
“We are building enduring capabilities by combining advanced technology, skilled manpower, and strong processes. The strides taken in modernising the Yard give us confidence that HSL will continue to deliver secure, sustainable and world-class ships for the nation.”
Greenfield Expansion and Commercial Shipbuilding
Looking ahead, HSL is engaging with the Government of Andhra Pradesh for land allocation to establish a greenfield shipyard. The proposed facility will cater to large commercial vessels, including Medium Range (MR) tankers and Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs), significantly enhancing India’s indigenous shipbuilding capacity and supporting national objectives of reducing dependence on overseas shipyards.
Defence, Commercial and Sustainable Platforms
As part of its forward planning, HSL is gearing up for upcoming defence programmes, including amphibious platforms, mine countermeasure vessels and next-generation fast craft. At the same time, the shipyard is widening its footprint in the commercial and offshore segments, taking on projects such as gas carriers, offshore support vessels and structural fabrication for the oil and gas industry.
In step with national sustainability priorities, HSL is also laying the groundwork for the construction of electric, hybrid and hydrogen-powered vessels.
Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0
Digital modernisation is becoming a central pillar of HSL’s growth strategy. After rolling out SAP S/4HANA, the shipyard has begun adopting Industry 4.0 processes, with greater use of artificial intelligence and data-led planning. Tools such as 3D design, virtual reality, and digital simulation are increasingly being used in ship design and construction to improve accuracy, safety as well as overall build efficiency.
Ship Repair and Submarine Ecosystem
Ship repair and submarine capability remain critical focus areas. HSL is strengthening its supply chain and infrastructure to position itself as a major ship-repair and submarine refit hub on India’s east coast, with an expanding global outlook. Building on decades of experience in submarine refitting, HSL is now preparing for a larger role in submarine construction in partnership with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. This will strengthen India’s domestic submarine industrial base and cut dependence on overseas shipyards.
With upgraded infrastructure, technology-driven systems, a skilled workforce, and strong strategic partnerships, Hindustan Shipyard Limited is steadily transitioning from a traditional shipbuilder into a full-spectrum maritime solutions provider, which is positioned to support India’s rise as a competitive maritime power.