GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business in the UK has been selected by Team Resolute to provide hybrid propulsion technology for three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships for the UK Ministry of Defence.
Team Resolute is a consortium created by Spanish shipbuilder and defence company Navantia, shipbuilder Harland & Wolff and naval architects BMT to deliver the FSS programme, for which Navantia UK, the UK subsidiary of Navantia, is prime contractor.
The 216m ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) are being designed with an emphasis on minimising carbon emissions. Equipped with energy-efficient technologies to reduce power consumption, they will be able to use low-carbon, non-fossil fuels and future sustainable energy sources.
GE Vernova’s hybrid-electric propulsion technology will play a key role in realizing these objectives, helping to optimize energy efficiency, power utilization and availability. Delivery of the electric propulsion equipment for the first FSS ship is scheduled for 2025, with the second and third vessels planned for 2026 and 2027.
Under the terms of the contract, GE Vernova will design and manufacture ‘SeaPulse’ active front-end (AFE) power converters and power take-off/power take-in (PTI/PTO) hybrid electric induction motor-generators with resilient shock mounts and flexible coupling and hosing.
The scope of GE Vernova’s contract also includes commissioning, testing, sea trials, certification and integrated logistics support (ILS) services to help ensure the seamless integration of the hybrid-electric propulsion technology into the FSS ships.
“Selection of suppliers for FSS ships’ key equipment, such as propulsion technology, is a clear indication that the program is well on track and is aligned with the timetable required by the Ministry of Defence,” said Juan de la Cueva, CEO of Navantia UK.
“GE Vernova’s background in naval engineering and contributions to the RFA’s Tide-class fleet tankers establishes the business as a reliable partner for this important programme,” said Andy Cooper, managing director of GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business, UK.
“We are confident that our hybrid-electric propulsion technology will enhance the Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s operational efficiency, aligning with the UK’s commitment to sustainability.”
