Three Clyde-based maritime firms have delivered structural units for a Royal Navy Type 26 frigate to BAE Systems, Ferguson Marine stated.
Ferguson Marine, Malin Abram and Coastworks completed three units for HMS Birmingham, the fourth Type 26 ship, as part of the programme being delivered by BAE Systems. The steel units were fabricated by the workforce at Port Glasgow before being transported to BAE Systems’ Govan shipyard in a coordinated marine operation overseen by heavy lift specialists Malin Abram, using vessels provided by Coastworks.
The delivery represents a milestone for the three businesses and highlights the region’s integrated supply chain and its role in supporting UK defence projects.
Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: “This is a proud moment for everyone at Ferguson Marine. Our team has worked diligently to meet the exacting, world-class standards required for the UK’s next-generation anti-submarine warfare capability. This project has showcased the robust capabilities of our skilled workforce and provided invaluable, high-level engineering experience for apprentices. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with BAE Systems and continuing conversations about the support we can provide in the future as a supplier of key components.”
James Bowie, Managing Director of Malin Abram, said: “This project has provided an opportunity not only to further strengthen our relationships with BAE Systems, Ferguson Marine, and Coastworks, but also to showcase the expertise of our heavy lift team and, more broadly, the capabilities that exist across the Clyde. From undertaking site surveys and supplying the required craneage, tugs and barges, to developing the seafastening design and overseeing the operation, our team has drawn upon many years of experience to ensure the project was delivered safely, on time and to specification.”
Brian Young, Managing Director of Coastworks, said: “We have recently invested in a suite of new barges, suited for our clients’ needs, and the wider requirements of the Clyde. Scopes such as this demonstrate the value of our vessels, but also the importance of collaboration, with a growing relationship with BAE, Malin Abram and Fergusons, and an indication of the strength of the supply chain in Scotland.”
The company said Ferguson Marine is now preparing to deliver the ferry MV Glen Rosa while deploying a £14.2 million capital investment from the Scottish Government for infrastructure and equipment upgrades. According to Ferguson Marine, the funding is readying the shipyard in view of the Scottish Government’s stated intent to award it contracts to build four new vessels.
HMS Birmingham is the fourth of eight Type 26 frigates being built for the Royal Navy by BAE Systems at its Govan and Scotstoun yards on the Clyde. The class, also known as the City class, is optimised for anti-submarine warfare and will replace the anti-submarine variant of the Type 23 frigate, with variants of the design also selected by Australia, Canada and Norway.
