Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) Ltd has announced that it has signed a contract with BAE Systems to fabricate three structural components for Ship 4 HMS Birmingham as part of the Type 26 programme.

This marks an important development for Ferguson Marine, the last remaining commercial shipyard in Scotland and the only shipbuilder left on the lower Clyde, as it seeks to secure new work. It is expected that steel cutting will commence imminently as the shipyard stands ready to commence manufacturing.

The Type 26 programme, currently being delivered by BAE Systems, will provide the Royal Navy with the most advanced anti-submarine warfare capability available.

Construction is underway for the first five of eight Type 26 frigates with the ships at various stages of build. Each ship consists of nearly 60 structural units which are integrated at BAE Systems’ Govan shipyard before entering the water and moving to the Scotstoun shipyard for systems testing and commissioning.

Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said:  “This contract is a significant step for Ferguson Marine and will enable us to play a role in enhancing the UK’s world class maritime capability. In recent years Ferguson Marine has been working with BAE Systems, and as the last commercial shipbuilder on the Clyde, we are uniquely positioned to act as an extension of the important work happening under the Type 26 programme.

“As we seek to add to our book of orders, this proves the ability of our skilled workforce to secure new business. We are committed to expanding our experience, with this representing an important opportunity to grow the skill of the younger members of our workforce, to win future commercial contracts in this and related markets.”

Simon Lister, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Naval Ships Business said: “BAE Systems has a productive relationship with Ferguson Marine who are a key supplier of structural steelwork on the Clyde and have built two units for the Type 26 programme. This award strengthens our relationship and their continued involvement in the programme.”

Ferguson Marine is committed to continuing to develop its workforce and maintaining Clyde built skills through its apprenticeship programme whilst progressing the delivery of Glen Rosa and planning to deploy £14.2 million in capital investment from the Scottish Government to make vital infrastructure and equipment upgrades, modernising the yard and making it future fit.