Balaena welcomes the UK and Netherland’s decision to jointly procure the new amphibious transport ships in their £2.4 billion programme

Balaena welcomes the UK and Netherland’s decision to jointly procure the new amphibious transport ships in their £2.4 billion programme.

This vital programme will strengthen global security and the relationship between the UK and Netherlands.

The decision will also benefit the UK's shipbuilding communities.

Simon Gillett, CEO said: "Balaena stands ready to build the 160-meter vessels from our major construction facilities in Birkenhead and the North East of England.

"Our facilities have the industrial capability and capacity to support complex warship construction, and we continue to deliver major military vessels in the UK.

"In 2026 we have delivered key structural components of the Type 26 frigate programme and other Sovereign defence platforms on behalf of BAE. We also delivered significant units of the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. 

"Our commercial shipbuilding activity remains strong. In 2026, we will also deliver three commercial ferries– the Royal Daffodil for Mersey Travel and two ferries for Western Ferries.

 "Balaena and our established UK supply chain is ready to play its part in the delivering the new amphibious transport ships, which will benefit our workforce and shipbuilding communities across the UK".