Babcock has marked two major milestones on the Royal Navy’s Type 31 programme in a single day, cutting steel on HMS Bulldog while rolling HMS Active out of the build hall at Rosyth.
The steel cut ceremony formally begins construction of the fourth of five Inspiration-class frigates. At the same time, HMS Active, the second ship in class, emerged from the purpose-built assembly hall and will now prepare to enter the water for the first time.
The twin events highlight the production rhythm now established at Rosyth’s modern, modular “frigate factory”. With each hull, sequencing, integration and supply chain lessons are being absorbed into subsequent builds. Increased pre-outfitting of compartments and systems in manufacturing bays is intended to reduce time spent on integration inside the main hall, improving overall delivery efficiency.
David Lockwood, Chief Executive of 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. These milestones show the maturity of our facility, the success of the design and build process, and the skill and dedication of our Babcock team.”
He added: “We are not only building a new class of ship at Rosyth, we are also at the forefront of a national endeavour that is strengthening the UK’s shipbuilding industry, supporting sovereign and allied maritime capability, while creating an advanced industrial footprint and expertise that will support the future of global shipbuilding for generations to come.”
The Type 31 programme sustains around 2,500 jobs, with the majority of work taking place in Fife and supported by a broad network of UK and international suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises. The ships are based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design, which has also been selected by Poland for its Miecznik programme and is in build in Indonesia under licence.
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said: “These milestones show Scottish shipbuilding at its best. From starting construction for HMS Bulldog to rolling out the impressive HMS Active, this programme is delivering world-class warships for the Royal Navy and real economic benefits for communities across Scotland and the wider UK.”
He added: “The frigates will serve our nation for decades to come, and the skills and infrastructure we’re building here will secure the future of Scottish shipbuilding for generations.”
Scotland’s Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Today’s ceremony is testament to the skill, dedication and innovation of the workforce at Babcock – and a powerful symbol of Scotland’s enduring contribution to security in an uncertain world.” She highlighted the importance of apprenticeships and skills retention, noting Scottish Government support for aerospace, defence, marine and space companies through enterprise funding.
Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse said: “These milestones reflect the momentum, ambition and national commitment behind the regeneration of our future frigate force.” He described the Type 31 as “a major step forward in modernising our fleet”, adding that their modular design and combat systems would allow upgrades throughout their service lives.
The five Type 31 frigates are intended to undertake roles including interception, intelligence gathering, defence engagement and humanitarian operations. HMS Venturer, the first of class, rolled out in 2025, while HMS Formidable, the third ship, entered assembly following her keel laying late last year.