UK’s FSS program moves forward as ships start to take shape

January 26, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Navantia’s shipyard in Puerto Real (Cádiz) has begun the construction of modules for the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) program, which will see Navantia UK deliver three logistics ships for the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

The ships are contracted by the UK Ministry of Defense through Navantia UK, the Spanish shipbuilder’s British subsidiary. The start of work in Puerto Real highlights the program’s steady progress, three years after the contract was signed.

The launch of construction in Spain was marked by the steel-cutting ceremony held on December 3, 2025, at Navantia UK’s shipyard in Appledore, Devon. That event was attended by UK Minister for Defense Industry Luke Pollard and Navantia Chairman Ricardo Domínguez, formally signaling the transition of the FSS program from design into production.

A separate steel-cutting event in Cádiz was attended by the UK Defence Attaché to Spain, Captain Antony Crabb, along with Navantia’s Director of Operations and Business Development, Gonzalo Mateo Guerrero.

Speaking at the occasion, the British Embassy Defence Attaché welcomed Navantia’s continued commitment to delivering the FSS program on time and within budget, calling the start of construction at Puerto Real a significant milestone and a strong example of cooperation between the UK and Spanish defense industries.

Following initial production in Spain, the FSS modules will be transported to the integration yard in Belfast, where final assembly, testing, and delivery will take place. Navantia UK’s Appledore shipyard and Harland & Wolff in Belfast are working collaboratively with Navantia’s Spanish shipyards throughout the program.

“The start of work at this shipyard is a clear demonstration of Navantia’s commitment to a customer of vital importance,” said Guerrero.

“We are applying our best capabilities to this program and its delivery, meeting the highest standards of quality and rigor.”

Once completed, the three FSS ships will be operated by Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and will play a critical role in supporting the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group at sea. The vessels will supply ammunition, spare parts, food, and other essential stores, enabling sustained naval operations far from port.

Each ship will measure 216 meters in length and will displace approximately 39,000 tons. This will make them the second-largest ships in service with UK Defence, surpassed only by the Royal Navy’s aircraft carriers. The new capability will significantly enhance the UK’s ability to maintain a continuous naval presence at sea for extended periods.