Navantia UK has confirmed that it is in discussions with the historic British shipbuilding business Harland & Wolff to acquire its operations.
The proposed acquisition includes sites in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Appledore in the South West of England, and Methil and Arnish in Scotland.
Navantia UK stated that the deal aims to strengthen the UK’s industrial capacity in shipbuilding, defence and offshore wind, whilst developing a highly skilled workforce and a robust British supply chain.
The agreement, which remains subject to completion and regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in January 2025.
Navantia UK currently leads the construction of three ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to support the Royal Navy’s UK Carrier Strike Group. These vessels will be built across facilities in Belfast, Appledore and Puerto Real (Cádiz, Spain).
“The integration of Harland & Wolff’s facilities will ensure seamless delivery of the FSS ships by minimising programme risks and streamlining construction,” the press release stated.
“The acquisition will strengthen Britain’s industrial capacity whilst preserving more than 1,000 jobs,” the company added.
Spanish state-owned company Navantia designs and builds ships for the Spanish Navy and other navies. Its activity focuses on the areas of shipbuilding and ship repairs, systems and services and green energy /offshore wind energy.
