The Ministry of Defence has advised that the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme remains on course, with production of the first vessel due to start later this year, despite the collapse of Harland & Wolff and its subsequent takeover by Navantia UK.
In a series of written parliamentary answers on 7 September, Defence Minister Luke Pollard told MPs that “successful delivery of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ship programme, which is currently in the design phase, remains a priority.”
He said the acquisition of Harland & Wolff by Navantia UK following its administration “has provided greater certainty to the delivery of the FSS programme and protects the UK’s shipbuilding capability, and the supply chain that supports this, now and over the long-term.”
The minister confirmed that design work is advancing and that “production of the first FSS ship is expected to begin later in 2025, with all three vessels bolstering the Royal Fleet Auxiliary over the coming decade.”
Pressed by Labour MP Jayne Kirkham on the delivery timeline, Pollard said the impact on approved cost and in-service dates was still being assessed but would be “mitigated as far as possible.” Any revised figures will require re-approval and will be shared through official channels when available.
Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty asked about recent progress on the programme. Pollard pointed to resumed investment in Belfast, where recapitalisation of the yard restarted in the spring following Navantia UK’s takeover. “This investment will further strengthen UK capability, modernising the shipbuilding facilities in Belfast and leading to increased productivity and capacity,” he said.
He also confirmed that Navantia UK has begun work on a new £8 million transport barge at its Methil yard in Fife. The vessel will allow FSS modules to be moved between sites, enabling distributed construction across multiple yards.
Pollard reiterated that commercial sensitivities prevent further disclosure at this stage but insisted the programme remains a priority for both government and industry.
its nice to talk. but surely what the country wants to know is WHEN.
and how many, that would be nice.
How many is three and has been for some time.
The how much for three is strange that it is shrouded in secrecy as it really should be disclosed.
The when the first one starts trials is a puzzler.
This has been a shambles from the moment they chose to scrap the newer Fort George, leaving the older, slower, smaller, Fort Rosalie ( Grange ) and Fort Austin.
With those two long sold off, no FRS for the RFA for best part of a decade.
The talking has gone on for years with this program and build still hasnt started.
The 3 will be great assets though, once they’re here.
Sadly like many ships they should have been started a decade ago. But your correct when the RFA get them it will be good.
are they going to use trains now then? On track, whose track, what track?
3 ships doesn’t seem enough to attract much investment, especially as they’re almost starting from scratch. I wonder if Navantia knows something we don’t.