GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business in the UK has won a contract from Team Resolute to supply hybrid propulsion technology for three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships commissioned by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Team Resolute, a consortium comprising Spanish shipbuilder and defense company Navantia, shipbuilder Harland & Wolff, and naval architects BMT, will be delivering the FSS program. Navantia UK, is the prime contractor for the 216-meter-long ships designed for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA).
The vessels will prioritize minimizing carbon emissions, incorporating energy-efficient technologies to reduce power consumption, and facilitating adaptability to low-carbon, non-fossil fuels, and future sustainable energy sources.
GE Vernova’s hybrid-electric propulsion technology is expected to play a crucial role in achieving these objectives by optimizing energy efficiency, power utilization, and availability for the UK’s new ship class and their diverse missions.
GE Vernova will design and manufacture SeaPulse Active Front-End (AFE) power converters and Power Take-Off/Power Take-In (PTI/PTO) hybrid electric induction motor-generators. The scope of the contract includes resilient shock mounts and flexible coupling and hosing, along with commissioning, testing, sea trials, certification, and integrated logistics support (ILS) services to ensure seamless integration of the hybrid-electric propulsion technology into the FSS ships.
Juan de la Cueva, CEO of Navantia UK, said: “The selection of suppliers for FSS ships’ key equipment, such as propulsion technology, is a clear indication that the program is well on track and is aligned with the timetable required by the UK MoD.”
Andy Cooper, Managing Director of GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business, UK, highlighted the company’s rich background in naval engineering and expressed confidence that the advanced hybrid-electric propulsion technology will enhance the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s operational efficiency, aligning with the UK’s commitment to sustainability.
GE Vernova, with a three-decade history of supporting the Royal Navy, sees the UK MOD’s FSS program as a critical step in enhancing the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s capabilities. The delivery of GE Vernova’s electric propulsion equipment for the first FSS ship is scheduled for 2025, with the subsequent vessels planned for 2026 and 2027.
This modernization effort aligns with the UK Government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh, contributing to social and economic growth and reinforcing the nation’s shipbuilding capacity for economic prosperity.