India’s heavy engineering logistics landscape, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Ltd (SDHI) has partnered with Wheel & Time Shipping Transport Logistics to inaugurate the nation’s first integrated Fabrication, Assembly, Storage, and Transportation (F.A.S.T) logistics ecosystem.
This strategic alliance, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to streamline the execution of large-scale engineering projects by consolidating critical operations under one roof. Located in the industrial hub of Pipavav, Gujarat, SDHI’s shipyard spans over 600 acres and boasts the largest dry dock in India, measuring 662 metres by 65 metres. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure, including advanced CNC and robotic systems for steel cutting, hydraulic presses capable of handling up to 1,600 tonnes, and specialised equipment for lifting heavy items. These capabilities position SDHI as a formidable player in the shipbuilding and heavy fabrication sectors.
The F.A.S.T model represents a paradigm shift in project execution, offering a turnkey solution that integrates fabrication, assembly, storage, and transportation services. By consolidating these functions, the ecosystem aims to reduce project timelines, minimise risks associated with multiple vendor coordination, and provide scalable solutions linked to global shipping networks. Wheel & Time Shipping Transport Logistics brings to the partnership its extensive expertise in heavy logistics, including an impressive fleet of Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), hydraulic trailers, and marine transport vessels. This fleet enables the seamless movement of over-dimensional and oversized cargo to global destinations, ensuring that SDHI’s fabricated structures reach their intended locations efficiently and safely.
The collaboration targets industries that require complex logistics solutions, such as ports, marine infrastructure, petrochemicals, offshore engineering, oil and gas infrastructure, and heavy engineering. By offering an integrated approach, the F.A.S.T ecosystem aims to de-risk projects and enhance certainty across timelines, execution, and delivery. Director of Swan Defence and Heavy Industries, emphasised the strategic importance of this alliance, stating, “Newbuilds, ship repairs, and heavy fabrication are central to SDHI’s growth plans. With strong capabilities in shipbuilding and repairs, this partnership with Wheel & Time Shipping Transport Logistics enhances our heavy engineering operations. Together, we can offer customers a more integrated, end-to-end solution.”
Managing Director of Wheel & Time Shipping Transport Logistics, highlighted the operational advantages of the F.A.S.T ecosystem, noting, “The F.A.S.T. logistics ecosystem will enable clients to de-risk projects and improve certainty across timelines, execution, and delivery.” This initiative aligns with India’s broader objectives of enhancing infrastructure capabilities and fostering sustainable, efficient, and equitable industrial growth. By integrating critical functions and leveraging advanced technologies, the F.A.S.T logistics ecosystem sets a new benchmark for heavy engineering project execution in the country.
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