Suez Canal Authority Expands Fleet with Locally Built Tugboats
Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has achieved a major milestone in its efforts to strengthen the national maritime industry with the launch of two new tugboats, AZM 3 and AZM 4, each featuring a 90-ton bollard-pull capacity. The launch took place at Misr Tugboats Factory in Safaga, which is part of an ambitious production line building ten tugboats for the SCA’s fleet modernization plan.
During the ceremony, Adm. Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, highlighted that Misr Tugboats Factory represents a new era in the localization of shipbuilding in Egypt. He emphasized that the continuous work and dedication of the team are key to achieving the targeted production rates in record time. The factory has already received several foreign offers, reflecting the success of the “Made in Egypt” initiative in global markets.
The two newly launched tugboats are each 32 meters long, 13.5 meters wide, and have a draft of 6 meters, capable of reaching a top speed of 12 knots. They are designed to support canal operations, towing, and port services efficiently. Both will be delivered by the end of this year, followed by AZM 5 and AZM 6, which are also under construction.
In line with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s directives to develop and modernize Egypt’s maritime industries, the South Red Sea Shipyard, which supervises the project, is undergoing major infrastructure developments, including new administrative facilities, a paint factory, and expanded production areas.
For the shipping community, this progress marks an important transformation in Egypt’s maritime capabilities. The Suez Canal Authority’s investment in local shipbuilding not only enhances operational efficiency but also opens new opportunities for regional export and industrial cooperation.
Karimar Shipping continues to support the growth of Egypt’s maritime sector by providing comprehensive shipping, port agency, logistics, and vessel management services. With these national advancements, the company remains committed to connecting global shipping operations with Egypt’s expanding capabilities in shipbuilding and marine services.
