Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), a Navratna DPSU, commenced the production activity for the first Multipurpose Cargo Vessel (MPV) for Navi Merchants, Denmark, today. Simon Christensen, CEO, Navi Merchants was the Chief Guest for the Plate Cutting ceremony. Simon and Sanjeev Singhal, Chairman and Managing Director MDL together commenced the cutting of the first steel plate in presence of Director (Shipbuilding), CVO MDL along with other officials from MDL.

MDL has signed a contract with Navi Merchants, Denmark to design, build, and deliver a total of 6 + (4 optional) vessels, each with a capacity of 7500 DWT. The project is valued at 86.05 million USD (₹700 crores approx.). Each vessel will feature a hybrid propulsion drive, built to meet stringent emission standards and shall be classified under DNV (Det Norske Veritas).

The vessels will be designed as Ice Class 1B, equipped with a single screw, controllable pitch, medium-speed diesel engine, and will include Electrical Energy Storage systems to comply with DNV Class notation Battery (Safety) for unrestricted global operations.

These versatile vessels will be capable of transporting a wide range of cargoes, including dry bulk, project cargo, containers, steel products, general cargo (including packaged, palletized, and bagged goods), forest products, and dangerous cargo.

The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in April 2026. Today's plate cutting ceremony marks the official start of the production activities for this significant project.