The Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) is a step closer to receiving highly capable new support ships following successful completion of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme’s Critical Design Review (CDR).

This major milestone demonstrates the programme is on track to deliver advanced vessels that will strengthen the RFA’s ability to operate globally.

The CDR was completed by prime contractor Navantia UK and the DE&S project team, with support from BMT Ltd. This achievement provides confidence in the design, allowing preparations for production to progress.

The review assessed the complete, detailed design of the vessels, from hull structure to equipment fit. Overall structural integrity, safety standards, environmental sustainability, risk minimisation and military systems integration were covered through the process.

This marks significant progress in delivering modern, capable vessels for the RFA. The ships will enhance the UK’s naval capabilities and support maritime security operations worldwide.

Ian Randles, FSS Chief Engineer at DE&S, said: “Completing the CDR represents a significant achievement for the FSS programme and demonstrates the strong partnership between DE&S, Navantia UK, and BMT. This milestone gives us confidence that we’re on track to deliver these vital support ships that will enhance the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s global reach and ensure our naval forces have the logistical support they need wherever they operate. We’re now ready to move forward with cutting steel and beginning construction of these advanced vessels.”

Keith Bethell, DE&S Director, Maritime Environment, visited the Harland & Wolff shipyard to mark the CDR milestone and witness the ongoing transformation of the Belfast facility.

Keith said: “I was impressed by the scale of transformation underway in Belfast, seeing firsthand how we will deliver this world-class capability and meeting individuals central to the programme. This important CDR milestone brings us closer to ensuring the RFA can support our naval operations worldwide, whilst strengthening sovereign shipbuilding for years to come.”

The MOD worked closely with industry partners to reach this critical milestone. The collaborative approach between MOD, Navantia UK, and BMT has ensured the programme maintains momentum towards delivery.

Donato Martinez, CEO of Navantia UK, said: “CDR confirms the hard work and collaboration between MOD, BMT and Navantia UK. This milestone demonstrates that the programme is ready to meet its operational, logistical and efficiency needs as it gears up to deliver for the Royal Navy and RFA.”

The successful CDR follows October 2024’s Preliminary Design Review and was marked in both Belfast and Cádiz, where UK technical teams have been participating in a knowledge transfer programme. This programme enables British teams to work alongside their Spanish counterparts, learning advanced shipbuilding techniques and processes that will be implemented in the UK yards.

The programme now moves towards cutting the first steel and beginning ship assembly later this year.