Egypt Strengthens Maritime Manufacturing with Launch of AZM 3 and AZM 4 Tugboats
In a major stride toward enhancing Egypt’s maritime industry, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) celebrated the launch of two new tugboats, AZM 3 and AZM 4, each rated with a 90-ton bollard pull capacity. The event took place at the Misr Tugboats Factory in Safaga and was attended by Admiral Osama Rabiee, Chairman of the SCA.
These vessels form part of a wider initiative to modernize the SCA’s fleet and empower national shipbuilding efforts. Under the supervision of the South Red Sea Shipyard, the factory is scheduled to build ten such tugboats and has already initiated the development of twelve high-sea fishing vessels. The AZM 3 and AZM 4, measuring 32 metres in length and 13.5 metres in beam with a draft of 6 metres, are purpose-designed for high performance in towing and port support operations.
Admiral Rabiee remarked that the factory marks a new chapter for Egypt’s localization of marine manufacturing. He emphasized that the efforts align with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s directives to develop and modernize the fleet of the SCA as well as to expand the country’s capabilities in ship construction. With foreign offers already received for Egyptian-built vessels, the “Made in Egypt” initiative is gaining traction among international buyers.
The accelerated production rates have been attributed to increased staffing and strategic infrastructure enhancements at the South Red Sea Shipyard, including new administrative buildings, paint facilities, and expanded storage areas. These developments support the shipyard’s capacity to meet ambitious timelines and maintain high quality standards.
For Sea Wise Marine Services, this progress in Egypt’s maritime manufacturing sector offers new opportunities for collaboration, supply chain engagement, and vessel support services. As companies operating in Egypt’s ports and the Suez Canal region expand their capabilities, Sea Wise remains committed to delivering seamless logistics, agency services, and maritime support aligned with the evolving industry.
