Ferguson Marine successfully delivers Type 26 frigate units to BAE Systems

Three Clyde based maritime leaders, Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) Ltd, Malin Abram and Coastworks have successfully completed and delivered three structural units for the Royal Navy’s HMS Birmingham (Ship 4), as part of the UK’s Type 26 programme, currently being delivered by BAE Systems.

The complex steel units were fabricated by the skilled workforce at Port Glasgow, showcasing the precision, quality, and modern engineering capabilities of Ferguson Marine. Following completion, the three fabricated structures were safely transported to BAE Systems’ Govan shipyard, in a highly coordinated marine operation overseen by heavy lift and transportation specialists Malin Abram, utilising marine assets provided by Coastworks. 

The successful delivery of these BAE Systems contracts represents a major milestone for the three Clyde based businesses. It highlights the region’s integrated supply chain and reinforces their vital role in supporting UK defence projects.

Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine, said: "This is a proud moment for everyone at Ferguson Marine. Our team has worked diligently to meet the exacting, world-class standards required for the UK’s next-generation anti-submarine warfare capability.

"This project has showcased the robust capabilities of our skilled workforce and provided invaluable, high-level engineering experience for apprentices. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with BAE Systems and continuing conversations about the support we can provide in the future as a supplier of key components." 

James Bowie, Managing Director of Malin Abram stated: “This project has provided an opportunity not only to further strengthen our relationships with BAE Systems, Ferguson Marine, and Coastworks, but also to showcase the expertise of our heavy lift team and, more broadly, the capabilities that exist across the Clyde.

“From undertaking site surveys and supplying the required craneage, tugs and barges, to developing the seafastening design and overseeing the operation, our team has drawn upon many years of experience to ensure the project was delivered safely, on time and to specification.”

Brian Young, Managing Director of Coastworks added:  ‘We have recently invested in a suite of new barges, suited for our clients’ needs, and the wider requirements of the Clyde. Scopes such as this demonstrate the value of our vessels, but also the importance of collaboration, with a growing relationship with BAE, Malin Abram and Fergusons, and an indication of the strength of the supply chain in Scotland.’

Ferguson Marine is now looking to the future as it prepares to deliver the MV Glen Rosa while actively deploying a £14.2 million capital investment from the Scottish Government. This funding is being used for vital infrastructure and equipment upgrades, readying the shipyard in view of the Scottish Government's recent announcement regarding its intent to award Ferguson Marine with the contracts to build four new vessels. 

Malin Abram, Coastworks and Ferguson Marine will continue to provide vital solutions as part of a larger, historic shipbuilding ecosystem along the Clyde. Networks of trusted partnerships like these will continue to ensure that the region can efficiently support the Clydebuilt delivery of large shipbuilding and engineering projects in Scotland maintaining important maritime skills for future generations.