Frigate to be moored in Glasgow to teach shipbuilding skills

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced today at the First Sea Lord’s Sea Power conference that HMS Argyll, a Type 23 frigate, will be repurposed as a training facility for apprentices in Glasgow.

This is part of a broader strategy to modernise the Royal Navy’s fleet and expand the UK’s shipbuilding capacity.

In his address, Shapps highlighted the importance of the Multi Role Support Ships (MRSS) programme, which includes the acquisition of up to six new vessels designed to replace the current amphibious fleet. “I am delighted, delighted to announce today that I have given a green light for the acquisition of up to six new Multi Role Support Ships. These will replace all of our current amphibious fleet,” Shapps stated.

To support this expansion, Shapps made clear the need to enhance the UK’s shipbuilding skills and capacity. “And it takes the number of Royal Navy vessels in design, on order or under construction to 28. Which will require a very big expansion in our shipbuilding capacity because I am determined they will be built here in the UK,” he said.

To facilitate this growth, the Ministry of Defence is in negotiations to sell HMS Argyll to BAE Systems. The frigate, which has served well beyond its expected lifespan, will be transformed into a training facility for apprentices.

“To ensure we have the skills needed, we are in negotiations to sell HMS Argyll which has served so brilliantly but, it has to be said, for about twice the lifetime expected, to BAE Systems for them to use as a training facility for apprentices.”

The establishment of a shipbuilding academy in Glasgow utilising HMS Argyll is a significant investment in the future of the UK’s shipbuilding industry. Shapps described the initiative as “a major boost for the sector, a major boost for skills and jobs, and a major boost for Scotland.”

Simon Lister, Managing Director of Naval Ships at BAE Systems, echoed Shapps’ sentiments, highlighting the practical benefits of the initiative. “It is hugely beneficial for our people to understand, connect and apply their expertise in an environment that reflects real life working conditions. HMS Argyll will provide that opportunity and, in tandem with the opening of our Applied Shipbuilding Academy, will allow our workforce to further enhance their existing skills and learn new ones,” Lister said.

BAE Systems addresses the national skills gap in shipbuilding

The shipbuilding industry in Scotland and across the UK faces a significant challenge: a skills gap that threatens to slow work and frustrate schedules. The demand for skilled workers often outpaces the supply, leaving vital positions unfilled and putting pressure on existing workforces.

BAE Systems address national skills gap in shipbuilding

This shortage is not just a local issue but a national concern, impacting the industry’s ability to compete globally and fulfil future defence needs.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, introducing unprecedented disruptions. Health and safety restrictions necessary to curb the spread of the virus led to reduced workforce on the shop floor and delays in project timelines. Apprenticeship and training programs faced interruptions, further widening the skills gap.

In response, BAE Systems has made an investment in the future of shipbuilding talent with the creation of the Applied Shipbuilding Academy. Part of a broader £100 million investment aimed at modernising facilities and embracing digital shipbuilding, the £12m academy represents a significant commitment to workforce development.

Construction recently started on the new academy at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun shipyard on the banks of the River Clyde in Glasgow, just downriver from Govan, you can read more on the academy here.