The Fleet Solid Support Ships (FSS) programme for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR), marking its first major milestone.

This milestone reflects the robustness and maturity of the design as FSS now enters a new phase, focused on detailed design and heading towards the start of construction in 2025, as scheduled.

The completion of the PDR has been possible thanks to close collaboration between Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Navantia UK and British designer BMT, with the latter leading the functional design phase.

An MOD spokesperson said: “We are delighted to see completion of this important milestone on schedule. We would like to acknowledge Navantia UK and BMT’s strong commitment to delivering an innovative and capable design, as well as their collaboration with DE&S. 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.”

As prime contractor, Navantia UK has overseen the activity, contributing its programme management expertise to ensure the seamless integration of all programme facets, including scheduling, procurement and production engineering.

José Luis Viguera, Navantia UK FSS Programme Liaison, said: “Industrial collaboration is at the core of the mission of Navantia UK. Shipbuilding is a complex industry that requires the combination of the expertise of leading companies. The achievement of this significant milestone underscore Navantia UK’s excellence in programme management, showcasing our ability to lead and innovate within the industry.”

BMT’s progressive approach to the FSS design integrates new technologies, such as energy-saving systems, emission-reducing solutions, and provisions for future fuels, aligning with the UK’s carbon reduction objectives. This focus on innovation is a testament to BMT’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art solutions that meet the evolving demands of modern naval operations, ensuring the FSS ships’ reliability, ease of maintenance, and operational readiness.

Catriona Savage, Programme Director at BMT, said: “The successful completion of the PDR is a testament to the collaborative efforts within the partnership, driving the FSS programme forward. This milestone paves the way for delivering advanced and efficient support ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, enhancing the Royal Navy’s operational readiness for global missions and contributing to the UK’s industrial and economic growth. Our collaboration and shared commitment to innovation are setting the stage for a new era in UK maritime capabilities.”

Following the completion of the functional design, BMT will continue to be involved in the FSS programme by monitoring changes that impact the functional design, developing through-life support and training packages, delivering comprehensive safety and environmental case reports, and supporting Navantia UK with the ships’ security accreditation.

Working together as One Defence, the FSS team is responsible for managing the delivery of the ships, yard investment, logistic support package, transition into service and supporting contracts to quality, time and cost.

FSS ships will be the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s modern solid stores replenishment ships, an essential supporting element to the delivery of the Maritime Carrier Strike Group, and core to the continued security and prosperity of our nation.

The ships will deliver crucial munitions, supplies and provisions to the Royal Navy while at sea. They will also be central to logistical and operational support, including counter-piracy and counter-terrorism missions and will collaborate with allies on operations around the world.