MAN Energy Solutions has received an order for customised MAN 32/44CR engines and Alpha propellers, to power three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships for the UK’s Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
In 2023, the UK Ministry of Defence awarded Team Resolute – comprising the UK subsidiart of Spanish shipbuilder Navantia, Harland & Wolff and BMT – the contract to deliver the three new ships. With Navantia UK as prime contractor, BMT Group is providing advanced naval design, while Harland & Wolff and Navantia will build the vessels. The majority of the hull blocks will be built in Harland & Wolff shipyards, with the integration, test and trials and delivery taking place at the iconic Belfast facility.
The naval package from MAN Energy Solutions will contribute to some key requirements of the FSS ships such as shock resistance, cyber security, NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical), Integrated Logistic Support (ILS), efficiency, low-emissions, and reliability. A further reduction of CO2 emissions by use of green methanol is a conceivable option through a later retrofit of the 32/44CR engines.
José Luis Viguera, FSS Liaison Programme Manager, Navantia UK said: “Navantia UK and our partners in Team Resolute for the FSS programme are proud to partner MAN in order to provide world class propulsion technology for the FSS vessels.”
MAN Energy Solutions will provide in total 12 V32/44CR propulsion engines, six L32/44CR Generator Sets, MAN SCR for each engine and three twin-screw Alpha CP propellers and plant auxiliary systems.
MAN claims a proven track record of collaboration with UK Defence and the Royal Navy, with vessels such as Type 23 frigates, a Fort Victoria replenishment vessel and Trafalgar-class submarines, among others, carrying MAN engines. The main task of the advanced FSS ships will be the underway replenishment of dry stores for Royal Navy vessels. Their capabilities foresee global operations for logistic support, operation support – including missions against piracy – and terrorism.
Andreas Junginger, Head of Sales, Navy, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “Navantia is a highly reputable and important partner for navies around the world and we are proud to be chosen to participate in this significant FSS programme for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. This high-end naval application marks another milestone for our increasingly important Navy business and we are looking forward to further developing our successful cooperation.”
Image: MAN 12V3244CR engines will be at the core of the machinery systems for three new ships for the UK Royal Fleet Auxiliary (source: MAN Energy Solutions)
