Royal Navy Names Two New Fleet Solid Support Ships at Keel-Laying

The Royal Navy has marked a milestone in its Fleet Solid Support programme with the keel-laying of RFA Resurgent at the Appledore shipyard in North Devon. The first of three new vessels, which will form the logistical backbone for UK aircraft carrier operations, is being built in sections across yards in Appledore, Spain and Belfast. At the ceremony, officials revealed the second and third vessels would be named RFA Reliant and RFA Resourceful, all designed to deliver munitions and supplies to the fleet at sea.

 

Details of the Milestone

 

The Royal Navy has reached a key milestone. It marked the keel-laying of RFA Resurgent. This took place at the Appledore shipyard. The yard is located in North Devon. This is a significant step in the programme.

The vessel is the first of three ships. These are Fleet Solid Support ships. They will support UK aircraft carrier operations. They will form the logistical backbone. This underpins the fleet's operations at sea.

 

The Construction Approach

 

The vessels use a distributed build approach. Construction takes place in sections. This spans yards in several locations. These include Appledore and Cadiz in Spain. Belfast is the third location.

Final assembly occurs in one place. All modules will be transported to Belfast. Harland & Wolff's facility handles integration. This brings the sections together. This approach combines multiple yards' capabilities.

 

The Ship Names

 

The ceremony revealed the fleet's names. The first ship is RFA Resurgent. Officials named the second RFA Reliant. The third will be RFA Resourceful. These names convey specific values.

The names reflect the ships' role. They are adjectives denoting particular qualities. RFA Resurgent speaks of renewal and resilience. These qualities reflect the ship itself. They also reflect the people who will operate her.

 

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The Ships' Role

 

The vessels serve a vital support function. They will deliver crucial munitions and supplies. Provisions will also be transported. This supports the Royal Navy at sea. It keeps the fleet supplied during operations.

The ships offer broad operational support. They will provide logistical support. This includes counter-piracy missions. Counter-terrorism operations are also covered. They will collaborate with allies on operations.

 

The Design and Sustainability

 

The vessels have substantial crew capacity. Each will have a core crew of 101. Accommodation supports 80 additional personnel. These operate helicopters and boats. Others perform various roles when required.

The design emphasises sustainability. It minimises carbon emissions. Energy-efficient technologies reduce power consumption. The ships can use low-carbon fuels. They are designed to reach Carbon Zero status by their end of life.

 

The Name Histories and Programme Value

 

The names carry historical significance. RFA Resurgent has been used once before. That was a converted merchant ship. RFA Reliant has been borne by three ships. RFA Resourceful is a new name for consistency.

The programme delivers broader benefits. It supports investment in UK shipyards. Skilled employment and apprenticeships benefit too. It strengthens UK shipbuilding resilience. This combines domestic capability with international expertise.