ONEX Group revives Greek shipbuilding

The ONEX Group has officially marked a new era for the Greek maritime industry with a symbolic keel-laying ceremony at Elefsis Shipyards. This milestone activates a state-of-the-art production line dedicated to high-specification tugs, representing the first major step in restoring Greece’s domestic shipbuilding capabilities.

Strategic partnership and production plan

The project centers on the RAstar 2800 series, specialized vessels designed by the Canadian firm Robert Allan Ltd. ONEX has fully financed the production line, which features an ambitious construction schedule, as reported by Athens-Macedonian News Agency.

• Initial Phase: A production plan for 20 tugs, with an option for an additional 20 units.

• First Partner:MegaTugs has signed as the debut strategic partner, acquiring the first two vessels with an option for two more.

• Current Progress: The first two tugs for MegaTugs are already 35% complete, with delivery expected by the end of 2026.

Modernization of Elefsis Shipyards

Panos Xenokostas, Chairman and CEO of ONEX Group and President of the Hellenic Shipyards Association, highlighted the rapid transformation of the facility. Just three years ago, the Elefsis yard was in a state of abandonment; today, it supports:

1. New Construction: The 20-tug specialized production line.

2. Maintenance: Extensive ship repair and upgrade projects.

3. Advanced Engineering: Complex ship conversion programs.

The revival has been supported by significant investments in infrastructure and equipment, alongside institutional backing from the Greek government, the US Embassy in Greece, the DFC, and various international partners.

A sustainable and exportable model

The initiative aims to create a sustainable production model for specialized vessels capable of competing with leading shipyards worldwide. Xenokostas emphasized that the project is not just about industrial output, but about national independence and the economy.

“Shipyards are about society, the economy, national independence, and above all, the next generation.” — Panos Xenokostas, ONEX Group Chairman

By establishing this state-of-the-art line, ONEX intends to deliver a modernized shipbuilding sector to the next generation, ensuring Greece remains a global competitor in specialized maritime construction.

The post ONEX Group revives Greek shipbuilding appeared first on Container News.