Harland & Wolff is undertaking a near £100 million investment to overhaul its iconic shipyard cranes in Belfast. The extensive refurbishment project aims to restore the cranes to their optimal performance ahead of a significant defense contract.
The overhaul will encompass major mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems, alongside fabric maintenance. "We know that the city is proud of them, and this major mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and fabric maintenance project will restore them to their absolute best," a spokesperson stated. The work includes replacing parts, updating technology, and rigorous testing to ensure the cranes can operate at full lifting capacity.
Navantia, the Spanish owners of Harland & Wolff, have already made substantial investments in the Belfast facility. These include an expansion of the fabrication hall and the installation of advanced plasma cutting equipment. These upgrades are part of a broader strategy to position the shipyard for its role in constructing naval vessels.
The major defense contract involves the Future Solid Support (FSS) program, with construction of the ships' blocks underway at Navantia sites in Spain and Devon. These blocks will be transported to Belfast by barge for final assembly. The first ship's blocks, for the RFA Resurgent, are scheduled to arrive in Belfast in early 2027, marking a significant milestone for the shipyard.