Egypt Launches AZM 3 and AZM 4 Tugboats, Advancing Local Shipbuilding
Egypt continues to strengthen its maritime manufacturing capabilities with the launch of the tugboats AZM 3 and AZM 4, each with a bollard pull of 90 tons. The milestone was celebrated at Misr Tugboats Factory in Safaga during a visit by Admiral Osama Rabiee, Chairman and Managing Director of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), accompanied by senior officials and shipyard representatives.
The two tugboats are part of an ambitious program to modernize the SCA’s fleet and support Egypt’s broader goal of localizing the construction of marine units. Built by Misr Tugboats Factory under the supervision of the South Red Sea Shipyard, the vessels represent another major achievement in the country’s ongoing efforts to develop advanced shipbuilding infrastructure and expertise.
Admiral Rabiee described Misr Tugboats Factory as a new chapter in Egypt’s industrial journey, highlighting its role in boosting national capabilities in maritime engineering and production. He noted that the factory’s success showcases Egypt’s commitment to producing vessels of world-class quality that meet both domestic and international demand.
The AZM 3 and AZM 4 tugboats measure 32 meters in length with a beam of 13.5 meters and a draft of 6 meters. Designed for high-performance towing and reliable port operations, the vessels demonstrate the technical precision and operational efficiency that define Egypt’s new generation of marine manufacturing.
This launch follows the successful delivery of AZM 1 and AZM 2 earlier this year and comes as part of a broader plan to build ten 90-ton tugboats for the Suez Canal Authority. Alongside these efforts, the factory is also advancing the construction of twelve high-seas fishing vessels, further expanding Egypt’s maritime industrial portfolio.
Rabiee emphasized that the factory has already attracted several foreign offers for Egyptian-built vessels, signaling strong global interest and trust in the “Made in Egypt” brand. The initiative aligns with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s directives to expand Egypt’s shipbuilding industry and position the country as a competitive player in the regional and international markets.
