Mainstay Marine Solutions has been awarded a contract to manufacture and assemble key components for the first three frigates being delivered to the Royal Australian Navy under the Hunter Class Frigate Programme. This prestigious programme builds on Mainstay’s proven track record, following its successful contribution to the UK Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates, and further reinforces its reputation for precision engineering and naval manufacturing excellence.
This contract forms part of a wider collaboration led by STS Defence, a UK-based technology and engineering company wholly owned by the Cicor Group. STS Defence has been selected by Rohde & Schwarz Australia to deliver twin integrated main communications masts for the first three Hunter Class frigates. Each ship will be fitted with two masts, with the first set scheduled for delivery in 2028.
The aluminium mast structures will be designed by STS Defence and manufactured and assembled by Mainstay Marine Solutions in Pembroke Dock, before being shipped to Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia for installation.
This announcement coincides with a significant international development: the Norwegian Government recently signed a £10 billion deal to acquire five British Type 26 frigates, the largest defence investment in Norway’s history. The agreement highlights growing international confidence in UK naval design and manufacturing.
Image:courtesy of BAE Systems
September 2025
About Mainstay Marine Solutions
Mainstay Marine Solutions is a leading UK vessel builder and specialist marine engineering firm with over 30 years of experience in designing and constructing workboats, patrol vessels, and marine infrastructure. Operating from deep-water facilities on the Milford Haven Waterway in South West Wales, the company is known for its high-quality workmanship, precision fabrication, and commitment to innovation.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Charlotte Wood
Commercial Manager
Mainstay Marine Solutions
📞 01646 681 117
📧 charlotte.wood@mainstaymarine.co.uk
🌐 www.mainstaymarine.co.uk
Charlotte Wood
Commercial Manager
Mainstay Marine Solutions
📞 01646 681 117
📧 charlotte.wood@mainstaymarine.co.uk
🌐 www.mainstaymarine.co.uk