Colombo Dockyard Secures Major Shipbuilding Contract
Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) has recently secured a significant contract to build two Cable Laying and Repair Vessels for Orange Marine, a renowned French company specializing in submarine telecommunications. This marks the largest shipbuilding contract CDPLC has ever signed, highlighting its growing reputation in the global maritime industry.
Orange Marine is a leading player in the field of submarine telecommunications, offering services that include the design, engineering, installation, and maintenance of intercontinental and regional cable networks. The company’s fleet is among the most experienced in the world, representing 12% of the global cableships fleet. This partnership with CDPLC underscores the trust placed in the company’s capabilities and expertise.
The contract signing took place in Colombo, where Didier Dillard, President/CEO of Orange Marine, signed the agreements in the presence of Emmanuel Decugis, Ships Technical Director, and Med Marine Base Director. Remi Lambert, Ambassador, Matthieu John, Deputy Head of Mission, and Philippe Fouet, Economic Counsellor from the Embassy of France, were also present to offer their support and blessings for the project.
On behalf of CDPLC, Thimira S. Godakumbura, MD/CEO, signed the contracts alongside Gihan Ravinatha, Director/CFO, and the senior management team. The two vessels will be ultra-modern, high-tech ships similar to the Sophie Germain, which was built and delivered by CDPLC in July 2023. These new vessels are specifically designed for sub-sea cable lay and repair operations, with a strong emphasis on sea keeping qualities, station keeping performance, and low fuel consumption.
The design of these vessels was undertaken by Vard Design AS of Norway. An optimized hull form and bow shape developed by Vard have been integrated into the design, allowing the vessels to achieve high speeds while minimizing their carbon footprint. This makes them highly eco-friendly and aligns with global sustainability goals.
This contract represents a significant milestone for CDPLC, marking its growing presence in the European market. It positions Colombo as a preferred shipbuilding destination for European shipowners, showcasing the company’s ability to meet international standards and deliver high-quality vessels.
As a leader in the shipbuilding industry in Sri Lanka, CDPLC continues to demonstrate its excellence through successful execution of shipbuilding projects worldwide. The company plays a vital role in Sri Lankan industrialization and contributes significantly to the nation’s export earnings from the shipbuilding sector. By generating much-needed foreign currency, CDPLC supports the Sri Lankan economy and drives the country’s maritime development strategy forward.
Key Features of the New Vessels
- Advanced Technology: The vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure efficient sub-sea cable laying and repair operations.
- Eco-Friendly Design: The optimized hull and bow shape reduce fuel consumption and minimize environmental impact.
- High Performance: Designed for excellent sea keeping and station keeping, ensuring reliable operation in various conditions.
- Global Standards: Built to meet international maritime standards, reflecting CDPLC’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Impact on Sri Lanka’s Maritime Industry
CDPLC’s success in securing this contract not only highlights its technical capabilities but also reinforces Sri Lanka’s position as a competitive player in the global shipbuilding market. The company’s contributions to the national economy and its role in advancing maritime infrastructure are crucial for the country’s long-term development.
With continued investments in research, development, and international partnerships, CDPLC is well-positioned to lead Sri Lanka’s maritime sector into a new era of growth and innovation. The recent contract with Orange Marine is a testament to the company’s vision and its ability to deliver on global expectations.