Delivering Critical Asset Assurance for the Royal Navy

What the client wanted

Attis was appointed by KBS Maritime to deliver a comprehensive programme of maritime asset surveying and testing across HM Naval Base Portsmouth. Operating within a live naval environment, the project required the inspection, testing and recording of almost 2,300 mooring assets while maintaining uninterrupted operational activity across the waterfront. 

The Challenge

Removing the masts from the world's oldest commissioned warship presented a unique combination of engineering, operational and heritage risks. The project involved lifting irreplaceable historic structures using a 750-tonne crane and specialist lifting equipment, with all works carried out overnight to maintain a controlled and safe working environment. 

The client needed independent engineering assurance to validate the lifting strategy, manage project risks and support the safe execution of this highly complex operation.

Our approach

Attis provided engineering and safety expertise throughout the planning and delivery phases of the project. Acting as a trusted advisor and critical friend, we helped finalise the mast lift safety case, provided ongoing assurance, monitored progress and supported the project team throughout the overnight lifting operation. 

The Challenge

The Naval Base required a detailed assessment of its mooring infrastructure to support long-term asset management, maintenance planning and operational safety. The scale of the programme, combined with the demands of a continuously active military waterfront, required a flexible and highly coordinated approach. 

The client wanted to know each asset condition, its safe working load (SWL) and to map where it was on the site.

Our approach

Attis delivered a structured survey and testing programme covering:

• 717 bollards
• 234 fairleads
• 1,341 mooring rings
• 41 berths and jetties



More than 16,000 survey points were captured and integrated into a CAD-based asset management system, providing a unique digital record for every asset. A bespoke reporting platform was developed to combine survey data, test results and maintenance recommendations, creating a robust foundation for future asset management decisions. 

Outcomes

• A complex maritime engineering project delivered safely, efficiently and without compromise to operational capability.
• All milestones achieved on or ahead of programme.
• Delivery within the original budget.
• A complete digital asset register supporting future maintenance and investment planning . 
• Additional high-priority work undertaken without major impact to the programme.
• an 'asset on a page' associated with each asset location on a CAD drawing of the site.

"It has been a pleasure working with the Attis team who consistently demonstrated their attention to detail and ability to adapt. Working in an active waterfront environment is not always easy, especially when operations can change schedules at a moment's notice. Attis were able to rise to this challenge and deliver outputs without delay."

Rob Macey

Project Manager, KBS Maritime