Ferguson Marine, Malin Abram and Coastworks deliver Type 26 frigate units

Units fabricated by Ferguson Marine were loaded onto Coastworks barge for transport to BAE Systems. [Photo: Ferguson Marine]

Scotland’s Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) Ltd, Malin Abram and Coastworks recently completed and delivered three structural units to BAE Systems for the Royal Navy’s HMS Birmingham, the fourth ship in the U.K.’s Type 26 frigate program, currently being delivered by BAE Systems.

The complex steel units were fabricated by the Ferguson Marine workforce at Port Glasgow, showcasing the yard’s precision, quality, and modern engineering capabilities. 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, utilizing vessels provided by Coastworks.

The successful delivery of these BAE Systems contracts marks a major milestone for the three River Clyde based businesses. It highlights the region’s integrated supply chain and reinforces their role in supporting U.K. defense projects.

“This is a proud moment for everyone at Ferguson Marine,” said Graeme Thomson, CEO of Ferguson Marine. “Our team has worked diligently to meet the exacting, world-class standards required for the U.K.’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,” Thomson continued. “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.”

“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,” said James Bowie, managing director of Malin Abram. “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.”