ONGC plans to build four PSVs via Indian shipyards, boosting self-reliance in maritime logistics.
In a decisive move to boost India’s maritime self-reliance, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has begun active discussions with public sector shipyards to construct four state-of-the-art Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs). These specialized vessels are vital to offshore oil and gas operations, delivering critical supplies and logistical support to production platforms.
The initiative is part of a broader, government-backed effort to revive domestic shipbuilding and strengthen India’s strategic offshore logistics capabilities. By anchoring the project within India, ONGC aims to support the “Make in India” vision while ensuring that its future offshore fleet is built on home soil.
A senior official confirmed that ONGC has reached out to Cochin Shipyard, Hindustan Shipyard, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers to evaluate capacity and interest. A limited-purpose tender is expected to be floated soon to finalise contracts.
Depending on their size and specifications, each PSV could cost between $15 million and $54 million. A larger PSV with 4,500 deadweight tonnage (dwt) may touch the higher end of that range.
This initiative stems from the recommendations of an inter-ministerial joint working group established last year, which projected a long-term need for 112 new ships across India’s oil PSUs, including:
- 30 medium-range oil tankers
- 24 Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs)
- 4 offshore vessels (PSVs being part of this fleet)
To assist oil companies lacking ship procurement experience, a technical working group is currently helping draft procurement and tender documents. Specifications for tankers and VLGCs have already been finalised.
ONGC and Indian Oil Corporation are expected to lead this national initiative. For ONGC, this includes a diverse fleet of special-purpose vessels such as diving support vessels, well stimulation vessels, geotechnical investigation vessels, anchor handling tugs, and offshore supply vessels, essential to its expansive offshore exploration plans.
This bold step could set the stage for a long-term revival of Indian shipyards and ensure India’s energy supply chain stays resilient and locally anchored.
Source: Maritime Gateway
