The construction of the first of three Royal Fleet Auxiliary support ships that will form the logistical backbone for UK aircraft carrier operations has begun at North Devon shipyard Appledore.
The steel cutting for RFA Resurgent marked the start of construction of the next-generation Fleet Solid Support vessels, which will provide munitions, stores, and provisions to Royal Navy task groups – primarily those led by the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers – around the world.
His Majesty the King approved the names of the new ships, which are being built by Navantia UK in collaboration with Harland & Wolff, BMT and A&P Appledore.
Only Resurgent’s name has been revealed so far, but all three titles are intended to convey values associated with the role that Fleet Solid Support ships will play – in the year, the RFA celebrates its 120th anniversary and continues to provide irreplaceable support to the Royal Navy.
Commodore Sam Shattock, Commodore RFA, said: “The ship is innovative, to meet the latest environmental protection standards and designed from the bottom up to deliver maritime sustainment as efficiently as possible.
“The construction will provide impetus to the UK shipbuilding industry, supporting jobs and local economies at the various construction and assembly locations in the UK.
“I am excited to watch this ship join the RFA flotilla and demonstrate its capabilities in due coursea. A true warfighting enabler for the Royal Navy of tomorrow.”
Keith Bethell, DE&S Director, Maritime Environment, said: “This is a significant moment for everyone involved in the delivery of this program.
“The Fleet Solid Support ships represent a major investment in the RFA’s ability to support frontline naval forces globally. Each vessel will serve as a crucial supply link for carrier-led operations, proudly built by skilled workers brought together for this shared mission.”