Scotland is a major centre for shipbuilding, ship-repair and ship management services - with almost one third of the UK market. A significant portion of the sector is focused primarily in the Defence sector, with Scottish-based activity in the design, manufacture and support of complex warships and specialist ships. Scottish ship designers and shipyards also undertake the design and production of complex vessels for niche markets. 

In Scotland there are more than 450 companies involved in the marine industry, employing over 22,000 people. Annual turnover is in excess of £2 billion and over 85% of companies export their goods or services. 

The Glasgow area remains a leading world centre for commercial ship management. Scotland has a long tradition in the industry and contributes over 50% of the annual cadet officer intake to the Merchant Navy. Former merchant navy officers are the backbone of the shore-based maritime sector in Scotland. 

Since 2005 naval shipbuilding activity has increased significantly as a result of Ministry of Defence contracts – combined with export orders from overseas Governments. Scotland also plays a major role in maintaining the Royal Navy’s surface ship and submarine assets with maintenance operations on both the Forth and the Clyde.

Marine engineering solutions

MacTaggart Scott provide highly technical ‘design to order’ marine engineering solutions, with capability including conceptual design and analysis through to build, with products including shiplifts, heavy duty hydraulic systems and radial pistons for the marine and off shore industries.

Ship management

Glasgow and the West of Scotland has long been established as centre of excellence for ship management and crew management, with Scottish managed ships undertaking 15 billion ton/kilometers a year.  Companies such as Teekay, V-Ships, Northern Marine Management, GBLT, Anglo-Eastern, Norbulk and others provide in-depth knowledge of the industry and provide technical and crew management services for hundreds of commercial vessels.  Scotland continues to offer world-renowned maritime education.

Shipbuilding

In addition to BAE Systems, other Scottish companies such as Ferguson Group, Macduff and Buckie have a long track record in the design and manufacture of a range of vessel types using the latest in marine technology, including ferries, patrol and research ships and specialist vessels used in supporting the oil and gas and offshore renewables industry.