Colombo Dockyard confirms effectiveness of contract with Orange Marine for two cable laying vessels

Monday, 16 February 2026 02:48 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sophie Germain, previously built CRV by Colombo Dockyard to Orange Marine delivered in July 2023

Colombo Dockyard Managing Director/CEO Thimira Godakumbura

Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) has announced that the shipbuilding contract entered into with Orange Marine for the construction of two state-of-the-art Cable Laying Vessels has officially become effective, following the successful fulfillment of all conditions precedent stipulated in the shipbuilding contract.

The shipbuilding contract was originally signed in November 2025, marking a significant milestone in Colombo Dockyard’s growing portfolio of specialised and technologically advanced vessels for the global maritime industry.

The ship design phase is currently progressing well in collaboration with the internationally renowned ship designer, VARD of Norway. In parallel, the procurement process has commenced, with machinery and equipment items with long lead times already ordered to ensure the timely execution of the project.

Colombo Dockyard PLC Managing Director/CEO Thimira Godakumbura said that as part of the planned construction schedule, Colombo Dockyard expects to lay the keel of the first Cable Laying Vessel by the first week of April 2026, signifying the formal commencement of first vessel construction.

Godakumbura further stated that this project underscores Colombo Dockyard’s capability to deliver complex and high-value vessels for international clients, while reinforcing Sri Lanka’s position as a competitive shipbuilding hub in the region.

Orange Marine is a French company specialising in the field of submarine telecommunications, from the initial design, engineering, to installation of intercontinental and regional links, and maintenance of existing cables. The Orange Marine’s fleet is one of the most experienced in the world and represents 12% of the world cableships fleet.

Colombo Dockyard continuously proves its excellence through successful execution of shipbuilding projects worldwide and is the front runner of Sri Lankan industrialisation.

Colombo Dockyard contributes significantly to the national export earnings from the Shipbuilding sector with much needed foreign currency to the Sri Lankan economy and plays a leading role in uplifting and driving the maritime development strategy of Sri Lanka.