Navantia UK has laid the keel of a future supply ship ordered by the UK Royal Navy for operation by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA).
The first ship to be built under the RFA's fleet solid support (FSS) programme will be named RFA Resurgent.
Each FSS ship will be 216 metres long and will provide munitions, spares, food and other essential stores to Royal Navy vessels at sea.
Navantia UK said this new capability will enhance defence operations, ensuring that the Royal Navy's ships can remain at sea for prolonged periods without returning to port.
Each ship will have a core RFA crew of 101, with accommodation provided for an additional 80 personnel operating helicopters, boats, or performing other roles when required.
Navantia UK's North Devon shipyard will construct the bow sections of the ships, which will comprise three individual blocks.
Resurgent is due to enter service in the early 2030s.
The names of Resurgent's sister ships, RFA Reliant and RFA Resourceful, were also announced during the keel-laying ceremony at Navantia UK's Appledore facilities on Thursday, September 3.
