The partnership builds on more than 25 years of cooperation, with Umoe Mandal already supplying key components for the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates. Under the new deal, the companies will expand efforts on composite structures for current and future naval platforms, including Commando Boats.
“This Collaboration Agreement enables us to build on our two nations’ military and industrial relationships, and further strengthens our ability to offer advanced maritime capability to the Norwegian and UK navies,” said Geoff Searle, Future Business Director at BAE Systems Naval Ships. He highlighted a “particular focus on composite structures for the Type 26 frigates and future Commando Boats”.
The agreement also outlines plans to explore the joint development of a new Littoral Strike Craft, aimed at enhancing amphibious operations and rapid deployment capabilities. While still in the conceptual stage, the platform could significantly boost commando force projection in littoral environments.
Tom Fidjeland, CEO of Umoe Mandal, welcomed the agreement as a boost for the local economy, stating: “This will enable us to invest further in skills and local jobs in southern Norway.” He added that the collaboration would support “future growth and development of our company, through the delivery of further frigate mast structures and collaboration on Commando boats.”
Both firms view the collaboration as a strategic move to improve naval interoperability and regional defence readiness. The partnership may also align with Norway’s future frigate procurement strategy, potentially involving the Type 26 platform already selected by the UK, Australia, and Canada.
The Type 26 is recognised as one of the world’s most advanced surface combatants, designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare and high-intensity conflict scenarios. BAE Systems noted that “sharing build and transition lessons across all three national programmes will benefit all parties in this multinational effort”.
