Yesterday, February 24, Babcock confirmed that it is finalizing preparations to launch the second of the Royal Navy’s new Type 31 frigates, as part of the Inspiration Class program aimed at renewing the United Kingdom’s surface fleet and escort capabilities. At its facilities in Rosyth, Scotland, the company confirmed two significant milestones: the cutting of the first steel plate corresponding to HMS Bulldog and the roll-out of HMS Active, the second unit of this new class.
The event also marked the formal start of construction for HMS Bulldog, the fourth of the five planned frigates, while HMS Active completed its structural assembly process and was moved out of the shipbuilding hall ahead of its first entry into the water.
According to Babcock, these advances reflect the production pace achieved through a modular construction approach and the use of industrial infrastructure specifically developed for the program. Previously, in May 2025, the Royal Navy and the company also announced the completion of the assembly of the first Type 31 frigate, HMS Venturer, whose construction began in 2022 at Babcock’s shipyard in Scotland.
On the Type 31 frigates:
The base design of the frigates corresponds to the Arrowhead 140 model, which was also selected by Poland for its Miecznik program and adopted by Indonesia for the construction of multiple units. According to the company, new design and construction licenses were recently secured for the Indonesian Navy, consolidating the British program’s international projection; it is also being positioned as a candidate to equip the Royal Danish Navy, which requires the replacement of its current Iver Huitfeldt-class vessels.
The Type 31 program also plays a central role in strengthening the United Kingdom’s sovereign defense capability and supports approximately 2,500 highly skilled jobs, primarily in Fife, Scotland. The initiative includes a network of national and international suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises, and seeks to consolidate the UK’s capacity to design, build, and integrate complex warships, as well as export that expertise.
Official statements:
Babcock Chief Executive Officer David Lockwood stated: “Delivering the steel cut of HMS Bulldog and the roll-out of HMS Active on the same day is a powerful demonstration of the momentum and execution focus of our Type 31 program as we build the Royal Navy’s next modern and future-ready fleet.” He added that “these milestones demonstrate the maturity of our facilities, the success of the design and build process, and the skill and dedication of our workforce.”
For his part, the UK Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Luke Pollard, said that “these milestones showcase Scottish shipbuilding at its very best,” emphasizing that the program is delivering world-class warships for the Royal Navy while generating economic benefits for Scotland and the rest of the country. Similarly, Scotland’s Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, stated that the ceremony is “a testament to the skill, dedication and innovation of Babcock’s workforce,” highlighting more than £90 million in public investment since 2006 in companies across the aerospace, defense, maritime, and space sectors.
The Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse, noted that “the Type 31 Inspiration Class represents an important step in the modernization of our fleet,” explaining that the ships have been designed to offer flexibility in a changing strategic environment. He also indicated that their combat systems and modular design will allow upgrades throughout their service life, ensuring adaptability to present and future threats.
Images obtained from Babcock.
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