Babcock Advances UK Royal Navy Frigate Program
Babcock has marked significant progress in the UK Royal Navy’s Type 31 Inspiration-class frigate program at its Rosyth shipyard in Scotland. The company has initiated construction on HMS Bulldog, the fourth of five planned ships, by cutting the steel for its hull. Additionally, HMS Active has completed assembly and is set to be the second frigate launched from the facility.
Babcock Secures Contract for Australian Navy Frigates lift and hoist systems
Progress on Type 31 Frigates
The Type 31 frigates are designed to enhance the Royal Navy’s operational flexibility, enabling a range of missions from interception and intelligence gathering to defensive operations and humanitarian assistance. Babcock’s recent milestones build on a series of achievements in the Type 31 program throughout 2025, including the rollout of HMS Venturer and the keel laying of HMS Formidable.
This modular construction approach allows for the installation of equipment and systems within the ship’s compartments while still in the assembly bays, streamlining the building process. Babcock’s efforts are supported by a network of UK and international suppliers, including numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, which contribute to the overall success of the program.
In addition to these construction milestones, Babcock has secured an $84 million contract for the Capability Insertion Period, which focuses on integrating and testing upgrades to improve the frigates’ operational capabilities. Furthermore, Babcock has partnered with BAE Systems Bofors to enhance in-service support for the naval guns installed on the five ships, including both the Mk3 and lighter Mk4 variants. This collaboration aims to ensure that the Type 31 frigates remain at the forefront of modern naval warfare.
