Navantia UK Completes Acquisition of Harland & Wolff Shipbuilding Company

Navantia UK has completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff’s facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish.

This strategic acquisition is expected to enhance the U.K.'s defence, maritime, and clean energy sectors. Under Navantia UK's management, the facilities will gain from the company’s expertise in shipbuilding, fabrication, and complex programme management.

An outcome of this acquisition is the continuation of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme, which involves building three ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) to aid the U.K. Carrier Strike Group. The FSS ships will be constructed at the Belfast and Appledore yards alongside Navantia’s existing facilities in Spain.

The Fleet Solid Support vessels are designed to provide logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy, including supplying munitions, stores, and provisions to aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates. They will also serve critical missions against piracy and terrorism. The three ships, slated for delivery to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary by 2032, will replace the RFA Fort Austin, RFA Fort Rosalie, and RFA Fort Victoria.

Construction of the first ship is scheduled to begin in 2025. These vessels will each measure 216 meters in length, 34.5 meters in width, and have a displacement of 39,000 tons. They will feature a top speed of 19 knots and a range of 11,000 nautical miles. Notable design features include a full-width integrated bridge, three heavy replenishment rigs, and storage capacity for 9,000m² of supplies. Additionally, the ships will be equipped with a flight deck capable of hosting all U.K. military helicopters, including space for two Royal Navy Merlins and unmanned aerial systems.