Article Posted on : - Dec 13, 2012

NEW DELHI (PTI): Private shipbuilder ABG Shipyard (ABL) has announced that it has received a Rs 485-crore contract from the Indian Defence Ministry for building a cadet training vessel for the Indian Navy.

"ABL has bagged a repeat order from the Ministry of Defence for building an additional cadet training vessel for the Indian Navy. This prestigious contract is worth about Rs 485 crore," the company said in a statement on Wednesday.

The country's largest private ship-building company said the vessel ordered will be about 110 meters in length with the capacity to carry a light helicopter.

"Designed to achieve a maximum speed of 20 knots, the vessel will be used to provide basic training to the Naval Cadets and trainees in activities such as disaster relief, search and rescue operations," the statement said.

Till date ABG Shipyard has delivered more than 160 vessels worldwide.

Commenting on the order Whole-Time Director and Chief Financial Officer of the ABG Group Dhanajay Datar said, "This repeat order reinforces the Ministry of Defences confidence in us. We are honoured that the government has recognised our shipbuilding skills and given us the chance to service the country once again."

ABL is a manufacturer and service provider for a variety of ships, like bulk carriers, diving support vessels, anchor handling supply ships, anchor handling tugs, dynamic positioning vessels, cement carriers and vessels for the defence forces like High speed Interceptor Boats and Pollution Control Vessels.

Its client base extends to Europe, South East Asia and the Middle East, with over 90 per cent of its existing Order Book comprising export orders.