Kongsberg Maritime to Supply Systems for India’s First Electric Tug

Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to deliver a fully integrated equipment package for what is described as India’s first electric tug, a project positioned under the country’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP). The initiative is regarded as the world’s first complete electrical tug integration and forms part of India’s wider maritime decarbonisation plans.

The order, placed by Mandovi Drydocks in collaboration with the Ripley Group, covers permanent magnet driven azimuth thrusters, electrical systems including energy storage solutions, automation and control platforms such as K-Chief and K-Chief PMS, as well as digital tools including Vessel Insight and Vessel Performance. Kongsberg Maritime will also provide full system integration. Operational support will be handled by the company’s Global Customer Support team in India.

The tug is being built to a design developed by NavNautik India. It will be equipped with 60-ton bollard pull and is scheduled for delivery and commissioning in the fourth quarter of 2026. The vessel will operate at Deendayal Port in Gujarat, one of the locations identified under the GTTP framework supported by the Government of India.

“This is a proud moment for Kongsberg Maritime. This contract is not only a technological milestone as our first full-electric tug, but it’s also a strong signal of trust from the Indian maritime industry. Our team has worked tirelessly to support owners and yards throughout the GTTP process, and we’re excited to play a key role in delivering the first electric tug in India. It’s a great example of how global expertise and local collaboration can come together to drive sustainable innovation,” said Annette Holte, Country Manager, Kongsberg Maritime India.

Mark Callaway, Senior Sales Manager, Tug Systems, Kongsberg Maritime, commented: “Electric tugboats are a significantly different vessel from traditional mechanical tugs, and owners and yards need confidence in these new emission-reducing technologies. By delivering a complete solution, from propellor to battery, we were able to earn Mandovi and Ripley’s trust that the final product will achieve their emission reduction goals set forth by the GTTP programme.”

The Ripley Group, through its subsidiaries Netincon Marketing and Ripley Shipping, is overseeing the project in partnership with Mandovi Drydocks and NavNautik. A spokesperson for the group said: “Together with the builder Mandovi Drydocks Goa and designer Navnautics we found Kongsberg Maritime’s offer to be the most comprehensive and well-aligned with our specifications and GTTP requirements, while also being competitive. Considering this, along with their expertise and experience in the field, we have decided to collaborate with Kongsberg Maritime on the development of the first-ever fully battery-operated tug for Indian ports.”