The procurement and ownership of a capital-intensive asset such as a naval ship brings with it many challenges for those involved over the project lifecycle. Ensuring that individual responsibilities and objectives are balanced with the constraints of limited budgets; increasing public scrutiny; greater attention to, and obligations for, provision of safety; and loss in some cases of critical technical knowledge mean that having a balanced assurance process is now a fundamental requirement.

Gaining this multi-faceted assurance, whether from the perspective of the nation’s government, the Chief of Navy, the designer or shipbuilder, or the sailors who will take the vessel into service, means that the practices and solutions used in previous projects may not deliver the necessary outcomes.

The same challenges exist for those involved with commercially operated shipping, but they have been able to meet this challenge through closer co-operation between shipowners, designers and shipbuilders, regulatory authorities and classification (class) societies. Unfortunately, it is not feasible to simply apply the commercial process to naval ships as many of the concepts and practices do not fit the design and/or procurement processes for government-owned assets.

This has led to the evolution over the last twenty years of naval classification (the classification of naval ships) from a facsimile of class for commercial ships into a more nuanced assurance process, as described in this publication. This process then provides appropriate assurance to the various stakeholders that their responsibilities are being discharged.

Contact us to learn more. 

Our vision is to become a strategic partner to leading navies around the world by contributing to their mission readiness, effectiveness and sustainability.

Lloyd’s Register’s (LR) world-class classification and consultancy services are the dependable way to assure the safety, availability and capability of the world's naval fleet.  Many of the world’s most respected navies partner with us to proactively protect their people, assets, reputation and the environment.

How we can help

We apply our expert solutions and independence to assure the integrity, reliability and success of every aspect of your operation. Helping maximise productivity and recovery, reduce operating costs, mitigate risk and demonstrate compliance with government regulations, industry codes and standards, many of which we have helped to develop.

Why work with us

In the public mind, global shipping is all about the big vessels – oil tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, cruise liners, etc. What’s less appreciated is the vast and diverse array of other specialised vessels involved, each with a specific, vital role in the supply chains that the marine, offshore and connected industries depend on.

These specialised vessels are the tugs, dredgers, bunker barges, fishing boats, high-speed ferries, offshore support and supply vessels, workboats, research vessels and numerous other types. Our approach is based on truly understanding your requirements and applying the tailored support you need. Focusing on vessel specialisation really is critical for these markets. It’s this understanding, experience and flexibility that make us the right partner for you at every stage in your ship’s lifecycle.

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