Overhaul for Belfast Cranes Ahead of Major Contract

The £3m refurbishment of Harland and Wolff’s iconic yellow cranes, Samson and Goliath, marks a significant milestone in the city’s resurgence as a major industrial hub. This investment is part of an almost £100m package aimed at preparing the yard for a major defence contract with the Royal Navy.

The Fleet Solid Support (FSS) programme is a substantial undertaking, with Harland and Wolff serving as the integration and final assembly site for three support ships. The overhaul of the cranes’ engines, replacement of key components, and upgrading of the entire system will ensure they can lift at full capacity. According to Carlos Lopez Carregado, General Manager at Harland & Wolff, this treatment “demonstrates our respect for these iconic landmarks” and reflects the city’s pride in its industrial heritage.

Belfast’s shipbuilding industry has a long history dating back to 1909, with Harland and Wolff being a key player. The cranes have become an instantly recognizable symbol of the city’s industrial prowess. However, this investment is not just about nostalgia or a return to past glories. It’s about positioning Belfast for the future – one that looks increasingly bright.

Navantia’s ambitious plans for the yard include substantial investments in new equipment and infrastructure. This includes an expansion to the fabrication hall and the installation of plasma cutting equipment, which will boost production capacity and enhance competitiveness on the global stage. Other sites in Spain and Devon are already working on the FSS project, with blocks for the first ship due to arrive in Belfast by 2027.

Airbus is also investing in Belfast, with a £6m extension to its wing factory underway. This will increase production capacity for wings destined for the A220 passenger jet, reflecting growing demand for this aircraft.

Navantia and Airbus are committed to building a long-term presence in Northern Ireland, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. The £100m investment package is just the beginning – more announcements can be expected in the coming months.

For Belfast’s residents, this investment brings a welcome boost to an economy that has faced challenges over the years. Shipbuilding creates stable, well-paying jobs and drives growth in key sectors like manufacturing. However, there are concerns about concentration of investment in a single sector, making Belfast too reliant on shipbuilding or vulnerable to fluctuations in demand.

The answer is far from clear-cut. While shipbuilding may be a significant driver of growth for Belfast right now, it’s also an industry that has proven resilient and adaptable over time. With Navantia’s long-term commitment to the city, there’s every reason to believe this investment will have a lasting impact on the local economy.

As the cranes continue their overhaul, Belfast is being given a major boost – one that reflects its rich industrial heritage and looks firmly to the future. The city may be small in size but big in ambition. And as these iconic cranes lift their heads once more, there’s every reason to believe that Belfast will be lifting its own profile on the global stage for years to come.