BAE contracts Norwegian shipyard for Type 26 composite work
A composite mast structure is lifted onto the first-in-class Type 26 frigate HMS Glasgow. (Photo: BAE Systems)
Norway’s Umoe Mandal will build masts and other structures for five more Type 26 frigates.
BAE Systems has contracted Norwegian shipyard Umoe Mandal to deliver composite structures for the five Batch 2 City-class Type 26 frigates.
Under the award, the Norwegian company will build and deliver the mast structure, including sponsons, doors, hatches and internal outfitting, as well as bulwarks and life raft platforms.
The assemblies will be constructed at Umoe Mandal’s Norwegian shipyard before being shipped to Glasgow for installation on future ships.
The contract follows work from the company providing the same subassemblies for the first three Batch 1 frigates.
The mast structures, bulwarks and life raft platforms are constructed from military-grade composites.
Using composites for modules high on the vessel’s structure offer benefits for seagoing characteristics and reduces the amount of ballast needed to stabilise the ship.
The lightweight materials also lower the centre of gravity than if the mast were built from steel. The associated weight reduction also gives the frigates increased deadweight capacity.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Global Combat Ship Programme - Batch 2 - City Class (Type 26) [UK]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Australian industry programme builds pipeline for Virginia-class sustainment]()
Australian industry programme builds pipeline for Virginia-class sustainment
Australian businesses can now bid to support Virginia-class submarine sustainment in Western Australia, as momentum around the Henderson Defence Precinct also builds.
-
![Russia’s uncrewed boat portfolio hints at future naval demand]()
Russia’s uncrewed boat portfolio hints at future naval demand
Ukrainian intelligence has catalogued more than 20 Russian uncrewed surface vessels, revealing a portfolio weighted towards mine warfare and logistics, with implications for Western naval investment.
-
![Ukraine’s new long-range 12m autonomous vessel can deploy other drones]()
Ukraine’s new long-range 12m autonomous vessel can deploy other drones
Ukraine’s UForce unveiled the MV11 uncrewed surface vessel, designed to launch and support other naval drones at sea, fuelling debate over the future of autonomous maritime task groups.
