Fleet Solid Support Ships Programme Reaches Milestone

The U.K.’s Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships programme for the Royal Navy’s Royal Fleet Auxiliary recently took a leap forward when it successfully completed its Preliminary Design Review (PDR).

The successful completion of the PDR was achieved in the wake of a series of cooperative work sessions between the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and prime contractor Navantia U.K., which spearheaded the functional design phase.

The FSS programme will provide support ships designed to deliver munitions, supplies and provisions to the Royal Navy while at sea. They will provide logistical and operational support, including counter-piracy and counter-terrorism missions and will collaborate with allies on operations.

Each ship will have a core RFA crew of 101, with accommodation provided for an additional 80 personnel operating helicopters, boats, or performing other roles when required.

The FSS programme has now progressed into the detailed design phase, with a view to starting construction on the first vessel in 2025; all three ships should enter service by 2032 after final equipment fits and military trials.

The completion of the PDR has been possible thanks to close collaboration between Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Navantia U.K. and British designer BMT. 

An MoD spokesman commented: “We are delighted to see completion of this important milestone on schedule.” They added: “The Fleet Solid Support programme is on track to deliver highly capable ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and we look forward to the continued successful delivery as we work towards production milestones in 2025.”

And José Luis Viguera, Navantia UK FSS Programme Liaison, said: “Industrial collaboration is at the core of the mission of Navantia U.K.. The achievement of this significant milestone underscores Navantia U.K.’s excellence in programme management, showcasing our ability to lead and innovate within the industry.” 

Catriona Savage, Programme Director at BMT, added: “The successful completion of the PDR is a testament to the collaborative efforts within the partnership, driving the FSS programme forward… Our collaboration and shared commitment to innovation are setting the stage for a new era in U.K. maritime capabilities.”

• You can read more details on the Navantia website and the DE&S website