Milestones in the Royal Navy's Type 31 Frigate Programme

On February 24, 2026, Babcock International marked a significant milestone in the Royal Navy's Type 31 frigate programme with the ceremonial steel cut for HMS Bulldog at its Rosyth facility in Scotland. This event officially commenced the construction of the fourth ship in the Inspiration-class series, which is designed to enhance the Royal Navy's capabilities. Concurrently, HMS Active, the second ship in the class, was rolled out of the assembly hall, showcasing the progress of the five-ship programme.

Babcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yardBabcock frigate factory marks double warship milestonePowerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two shipsNavy Lookout

The Type 31 frigates, collectively known as the Inspiration class, are intended to modernize the Royal Navy's fleet. The first ship, HMS Venturer, was launched in mid-2025, and the keel for the third ship, HMS Formidable, was laid in December 2025. These vessels are designed to perform various missions, including interception, intelligence gathering, and humanitarian support, and are expected to serve the Royal Navy for decades.

Babcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yardPowerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two shipsBabcock frigate factory marks double warship milestoneNavy Lookout

The Type 31 programme is pivotal for the UK's sovereign defence capability, sustaining approximately 2,500 skilled jobs at Babcock and an additional 1,250 jobs within the UK supply chain. The programme emphasizes the importance of local and international suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises, thereby strengthening the UK's shipbuilding industry. The Scottish Government has invested over £90 million in the aerospace, defence, marine, and space sectors since 2006, further supporting this initiative.

Babcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yard

David Lockwood, Chief Executive of Babcock, stated, “Delivering the Steel Cut for HMS Bulldog and the rollout of HMS Active on the same day is a powerful demonstration of the drive and delivery focus of our Type 31 programme.” He emphasized the importance of the facility's maturity and the dedication of the workforce in building a modern fleet. Defence Minister Luke Pollard MP remarked that these milestones reflect the best of Scottish shipbuilding and will secure the future of the industry. Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse noted that the Type 31 frigates represent a significant advancement in modernizing the fleet, capable of adapting to evolving threats.

Babcock frigate factory marks double warship milestonePowerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two shipsBabcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yard

While the programme has received broad support, some critics have raised concerns about the overall budget and timeline for the Type 31 frigates. Questions have been raised regarding whether the ambitious delivery schedule can be met without compromising quality or increasing costs.

Powerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two ships

As construction progresses, HMS Bulldog is expected to be delivered to the Royal Navy in 2030, assuming Babcock adheres to its projected timeline. The ongoing development of the Type 31 frigates will continue to play a crucial role in the UK's maritime strategy and shipbuilding legacy.

Powerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two shipsBabcock frigate factory marks double warship milestoneBabcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yard

• “David Lockwood, CEO, Babcock, said: Delivering the Steel Cut for HMS Bulldog and the Rollout of HMS Active on the same day is a powerful demonstration of the drive and delivery focus of our Type 31 programme as we build the next modern, future ready fleet for the Royal Navy.” — David Lockwood, Chief Executive, Babcock

Powerful new Royal Navy warship programme advances as milestones reached for two ships

• “Defence Minister Luke Pollard said: “These milestones show Scottish shipbuilding at its best.” — Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry

Babcock frigate factory marks double warship milestone

• “These milestones reflect the momentum, ambition and national commitment behind the regeneration of our future frigate force.” — Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse, Fleet Commander

Babcock frigate factory marks double warship milestone