Harland & Wolff’s facilities integration into Navantia’s operations ensures seamless delivery of the FSS ships. Credit: Navantia.

Navantia UK has agreed to acquire all four shipyards of British shipbuilder Harland & Wolff in the UK.

The deal will secure the future of shipbuilding in Belfast, Scotland and Devon, safeguarding workers’ existing terms and conditions.

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Navantia will acquire shipbuilding facilities in Northern Ireland (Belfast), Scotland (Arnish and Methil) and Devon (Appledore). The agreement is subject to regulatory approvals.

The strategic acquisition will ensure the delivery of the UK Ministry of Defence’s contract with Navantia for the construction of three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) class of logistics vessels, destined for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

The integration of Harland & Wolff’s shipyards into Navantia’s operations is expected to ensure seamless delivery of the FSS ships by minimising programme risks and streamlining the construction process.

Navantia said the deal will bolster Britain’s industrial capacity, preserving 1,000 jobs and enhancing the nation’s defence, shipbuilding and offshore wind industry capabilities.

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UK Secretary of State for Defence John Healey stated: “This agreement keeps vital defence manufacturing in the UK and protects skilled jobs at historic shipyards across our nations.

“It strengthens our sovereign capability to support Royal Navy operations worldwide, while building the industrial partnerships that will drive growth.

“The deal represents a major investment into the UK’s industrial base from Navantia UK and will provide opportunities for future naval work at Harland & Wolff’s shipyards across the country, which could create new jobs and give a boost to the UK’s coastal communities nationwide.”

In August 2024, Harland & Wolff was issued a new loan worth $25m to save it from collapse.

The company announced via the London Stock Exchange that its existing creditors had extended the shipyard’s lines by $25m.

However, the shipbuilder entered administration in September as the company continued to struggle with a debt crisis. The company announced its plans to either dispose of or wind down its non-core business functions.

In 2023, Harland & Wolff started demolition works at its Belfast site as part of preparation and investment plans for the block manufacture and assembly of the FSS vessels.