27 January 2025

Navantia UK completes acquisition of Harland & Wolff

Navantia UK today announces the completion of its acquisition of Harland & Wolff’s facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil and Arnish, protecting 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 robust supply chain. 

The transaction ensures the continuation of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme, comprising 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 facilities in Spain. Navantia UK plans significant development of the yards for the defence, maritime and green energy sectors.  

Ricardo Domínguez, Chairman of Navantia, said: “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 extends 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. All current employees have transferred to Navantia UK with their existing terms and conditions preserved. 

The transaction was supported by independent advisers Alantra, Clifford Chance, TLT and KPMG among others, who assisted Navantia with commercial negotiations and documentation. 

Notes to editors:  

  • Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia S.A., S.M.E., the Spanish state-owned shipbuilding and engineering company 
  • The Fleet Solid Support programme will deliver three support ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary 
  • The four facilities are located in Belfast (Northern Ireland), Appledore (Devon), and Methil (Fife) and Arnish (Western Isles)
  • Navantia Seanergies is Navantia’s renewable energy division, specialising in offshore wind infrastructure