GE Vernova to equip UK fleet solid support ships with hybrid electric propulsion technology

Team Resolute has chosen GE Vernova’s power conversion business in the UK to supply advanced hybrid propulsion technology for three fleet solid support (FSS) ships for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Delivery of GE Vernova’s electric propulsion equipment for the first FSS ship is scheduled for 2025, with the second and third vessels planned for 2026 and 2027. Team Resolute is a consortium created by Spanish shipbuilder and defense company Navantia, shipbuilder Harland & Wolff and naval architect BMT to deliver the FSS program, for which Navantia UK is the prime contractor.

The 216m-long ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) will reportedly be designed with an emphasis on minimizing carbon emissions. Equipped with technologies to decrease power consumption, they are expected to be adaptable to use low-carbon, non-fossil fuels and future sustainable energy sources. GE Vernova’s hybrid electric propulsion technology is intended to help optimize energy efficiency, power utilization and power availability for the UK’s new ship class and its multi-role missions.

Under the contract, 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 with resilient shock mounts and flexible coupling and hosing. The scope of the contract also includes commissioning, testing, sea trials, certification and integrated logistics support (ILS) services to help ensure the integration of the hybrid electric propulsion technology into the FSS ships.

“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,” said Juan de la Cueva, CEO of Navantia UK. “Navantia UK and our partners in the Team Resolute consortium for FSS are proud to partner with GE Vernova, a company that is focused on cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency and decarbonization, as well as supporting UK advanced engineering skills.”

Andy Cooper, managing director of GE Vernova’s power conversion business in the UK, added, “GE Vernova’s rich background in naval engineering, exemplified by its contributions to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s Tide Class fleet tankers, establishes the business as a reliable partner for this important program. We’re honored to collaborate with Navantia UK and Team Resolute in electrification technology for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. We are confident that our advanced hybrid electric propulsion technology will enhance the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s operational efficiency, aligning with the UK’s commitment to sustainability.”

Read more of the latest naval project updates from the electric and hybrid marine technology industry, here.