Navantia UK has announced the completion of its acquisition of Harland & Wolff’s facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish, securing more than 1,000 jobs across the four sites and strengthening Britain’s defence, maritime, and clean energy industrial capabilities.
Under Navantia UK’s management, all four facilities will benefit from extensive expertise in shipbuilding, fabrication, and complex programme management, supporting both a highly skilled workforce and a robust supply chain. The transaction ensures the continuation of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme, which involves the construction of three ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to support the UK Carrier Strike Group. These vessels will be built at the Belfast and Appledore facilities alongside Navantia’s operations in Spain. Navantia UK also plans significant development of the yards for the defence, maritime, and green energy sectors.
Ricardo Domínguez, Chairman of Navantia, stated: “The completion of this acquisition marks a significant milestone for Navantia UK and demonstrates our long-term commitment to UK industry. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise in defence, maritime, and renewable energy, we are creating an exceptional platform for growth.”
Navantia UK has expressed its gratitude to His Majesty’s Government for its support throughout this process, which has helped secure this strategic investment in UK industrial capability.
The transaction has received all necessary regulatory approvals, and all current employees have transferred to Navantia UK with their existing terms and conditions preserved.
The acquisition was supported by independent advisers Alantra, Clifford Chance, TLT, and KPMG, among others, who assisted Navantia with commercial negotiations and documentation.
