The FATs for the propulsion engines and diesel generator were conducted at MAN Energy Solutions' facilities in Augsburg, Germany. (Navantia)
The Fleet Solid Support Ship (FSS) programme for the UK Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) has chalked up new milestones with the successful completion of factory acceptance tests (FATs) for two main propulsion engines and the first diesel generator.
Announcing the milestones on 10 March, Navantia said the tests were conducted at MAN Energy Solutions' facilities in Augsburg, Germany.
“After completion of the preliminary design review in October 2024, the success of these tests ensures the provision of state-of-the-art efficient and reliable propulsion systems, which will significantly improve the operability and performance of its vessels,” Navantia said.
The FSS propulsion system design is based on a hybrid combined diesel-electric or diesel arrangement – similar to that of the UK Tide class and Norwegian logistics and support vessels (LSVs) – comprising four main diesel engines driving twin shafts and two hybrid electrical motors/generators.
MAN Energy Solutions was selected in September 2024 to supply the main engines, generator sets, and propellers for the new FSS vessels. Its full scope of supply includes 12 V32/44CR propulsion engines (four for each ship) and six L32/44CR generator sets (two per vessel) in addition to MAN selective catalytic reduction for each engine, as well as three twin-screw Alpha controllable pitch propellers and plant auxiliaries.
Navantia UK, leading the Team Resolute industry consortium that also includes BMT and Harland & Wolff, was awarded a GBP1.6 billion (USD2.06 billion) contract by the UK Ministry of Defence in January 2023 to deliver the three-ship FSS programme. The first of the three ships is scheduled to enter service with the RFA in 2031.
Looking to read the full article?
Gain unlimited access to Janes news and more...
