Lateral Naval Architects
Southampton-based Lateral Naval Architects is a firm with deep roots in commercial and paramilitary vessel design, applying this technical pedigree to create innovative superyachts like the 48m Spitfire.
Lateral Naval Architects, based in Southampton, UK, operates from a site steeped in maritime history: the former premises of J-Class builder Camper & Nicholson. This location, near the original Supermarine factory where the Spitfire aircraft was developed, serves as a constant source of inspiration. Despite the firm's relatively young age in the superyacht sector, it benefits from an extensive 37-year heritage as part of its parent company, BMT. BMT is a global leader in designing and engineering some of the world's most advanced marine vehicles, including highly specialized commercial and paramilitary vessels.
The Spitfire: A Fusion of Pedigree and Luxury
In 2023, Lateral Naval Architects revealed the 'Spitfire,' a 48-meter design proposition developed in collaboration with the iconic London-based design studio Bannenberg & Rowell. This project perfectly illustrates Lateral's unique approach. The design is built upon the proven technical foundations of the award-winning Ares / BMT 150 BOLD Class, a 48-meter high-speed offshore patrol vessel series. By leveraging this established and rigorously tested hull platform, Spitfire inherits a technical backbone of exceptional offshore pedigree.
Technical Innovation and Design
'Marrying a hull possessing offshore pedigree with the requirements of a superyacht platform creates exciting opportunities,' explains Matteo Maghernini, head of business development at Lateral. The team evolved the hull form to meet the demands of a luxury pleasure craft and integrated a hybrid-electric architecture. This allows for silent operation both at anchor and while underway, with a top speed exceeding 23 knots. The result is a lean, nimble, and purposeful 48-meter yacht that combines high performance with advanced, sustainable technology.
