Glenfield Invicta Reaches Key Factory Acceptance Testing Milestone for D Lock Regeneration Programme

Glenfield Invicta, working in partnership with client KBS Maritime, has reached a significant milestone in the three-year penstock replacement programme forming part of the wider Locks and Docks refurbishment project at His Majesty's Naval Base Portsmouth.

Representatives from Glenfield Invicta and KBS Maritime recently travelled to Orbinox's manufacturing facility in Spain to witness the successful Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) of the first eight penstocks. The testing confirmed that each unit met the required quality, safety and performance standards, marking a major step forward as the project moves from manufacture to installation.

The programme will see Glenfield Invicta deliver a total of 24 new penstocks as part of the D Lock regeneration works. These critical water control structures act as large-scale gates, regulating the flow of water to enable docks to be safely flooded and drained. Their operation is essential for the safe transit of vessels through the Naval Base while supporting ongoing maintenance and operational activities.

With the first eight penstocks now successfully tested, transportation to Portsmouth Naval Base is underway, allowing installation works to progress in line with the wider project programme. This milestone represents the successful transition from fabrication to on-site delivery and installation.

The project, valued at just under £12 million, demonstrates the strength of UK engineering and manufacturing. Glenfield Invicta's penstocks incorporate UK-manufactured actuators, while supporting steelwork and road covers are produced by suppliers local to the Naval Base, helping to strengthen the domestic supply chain.

Once fully installed, the new penstocks will replace ageing infrastructure that has served the Naval Base for decades. The modern designs will provide improved reliability, enhanced durability and reduced maintenance requirements, ensuring the long-term resilience and operational capability of D Lock.

The programme also highlights Glenfield Invicta's expertise in delivering specialist engineered solutions for complex water and marine infrastructure projects. From design coordination and manufacturing oversight through to Factory Acceptance Testing and project delivery, our experienced engineering teams work closely with clients and supply chain partners to ensure the highest standards of quality are achieved at every stage.

Glenfield Invicta is proud to support KBS Maritime in the delivery of this strategically important infrastructure project, helping to safeguard the future operation of one of the UK's most significant naval facilities.