SEA-Class Workboats
SEA-Class Workboats
Norco Composites & GRP was selected by Atlas Elektronik UK (AEUK) to support the UK Ministry of Defence’s SEA-class workboat programme. This prestigious six-year project involves the construction of up to 38 modular, multi-role vessels for the Royal Navy, ranging from 11 to 18 metres in length. The fleet, known as the SEA-class, is designed to fulfil a wide range of specialist naval roles, including diving training, hydrographic surveying, explosive ordnance disposal, Arctic operations, and more.
Project Scope
Atlas Elektronik UK was awarded the prime contract in 2017 to design, supply and support the new fleet of workboats. Recognising Norco’s expertise in advanced composites manufacturing, AEUK appointed Norco to deliver the production of the boats’ hulls, superstructures and modular components.
Norco’s role has been critical in the fabrication of each vessel’s primary structure, ensuring each workboat is robust, modular, and ready for the complex demands of modern naval operations.
Composite Expertise in Action
At the heart of this programme lies Norco’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality composite structures using advanced methods such as vacuum resin infusion. Norco produced precision CNC-tooled moulds to enable efficient, repeatable construction of all vessel variants. The composite GRP hulls and modules offer significant advantages over traditional materials, including reduced weight, increased durability, and resistance to corrosion in harsh marine and Arctic environments.
Each vessel is built on a common platform with interchangeable mission modules, allowing the Royal Navy to re-role boats rapidly depending on operational needs. This modular approach has been central to the programme’s success, with Norco’s manufacturing flexibility and engineering input playing a key role in realising this vision.
Collaboration and Delivery
The project has been delivered in close partnership with Atlas Elektronik UK. Norco’s in-house engineering team worked alongside AEUK to ensure designs were optimised for manufacture, assembly, and longevity. Final systems integration and outfitting were completed at AEUK’s Dorset facility.
From initial delivery in 2018 through to the final vessels in 2023, Norco has maintained a consistent production schedule, supporting the MoD’s operational readiness and strategic capabilities.
Results and Benefits
- Up to 38 vessels delivered using high-quality composite construction
- Full modular design enabling quick reconfiguration for multi-role deployment
- Enhanced durability and performance for challenging naval conditions
- Strengthened relationship with AEUK and increased standing within the UK defence sector
- Support for UK industry with skilled jobs secured throughout the programme
Looking Ahead
The SEA-class project has firmly established Norco as a leading supplier of composite solutions for naval applications. It reflects our commitment to innovation, reliability, and long-term collaboration with partners delivering vital defence capability.
“This programme is a reflection of the capability Norco has developed in the manufacture of composite workboats. We are proud to contribute to a project that supports the Royal Navy and showcases British manufacturing excellence.”
– Mark Northey, Managing Director, Norco Composites & GRP
