Babcock cuts steel on third Type 31 Inspiration Class frigate, HMS Formidable
Babcock, the international defence company, has formally cut steel on HMS Formidable, the third ship
of five Inspiration class frigates being built for the Royal Navy at its Rosyth facility in Scotland,
marking the official start of the ship’s build programme.
Coming only 20 months after the steel cut ceremony for the second ship, HMS Active, this highlights
the rapid progress being made on the Type 31 programme and the important sovereign defence
capability being delivered by Babcock at this world-class facility.
The first Type 31 Frigate, HMS Venturer is nearing structural completion, with the final unit now added
to the vessel within the Rosyth assembly hall alongside HMS Active.
Babcock colleagues, including representatives from the latest apprentice and graduate intake, shared
this important occasion with senior guests from the UK Government and Royal Navy, alongside
Trades Unions representatives and guests from international industry and Armed Forces.
Babcock’s Chief Executive Officer, David Lockwood said:
“Today, we are proud to mark yet another milestone in this important defence programme for the
Royal Navy. These frigates will play a significant role in protecting the UK and supporting international
partnered defence operations.
“This programme is a real demonstration of UK sovereign shipbuilding capability and is delivering
positive economic impact within Scotland and in communities across the UK. It is a privilege for our
teams across Babcock to be delivering these platforms for the nation.”
Themed Formidable Engineering, the day was a celebration of engineering ingenuity, with guests
experiencing the build programme first hand, while enjoying a STEM-focused event with local school
children, supported by colleagues and partners from across the Type 31 team.
Underpinning its commitment to developing the skills required to support defence programmes now
and, in the future, Babcock is creating 1000 new roles at Rosyth over the next four years, including
400 apprenticeships, 350 production support operatives, skilled engineers, tradespeople, and
graduates. The majority of these new roles, including over 100 new apprentices and graduates who
joined the company this year, will support the Type 31 programme over the lifetime of the project,
benefitting the UK economy and local communities alike.
Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard said:
“This government is committed to making Britain secure at home and strong abroad. These frigates will
be at the heart of the Royal Navy fleet, deterring aggression and supporting our military.”
“Today’s significant milestone is backing the government’s mission to grow the economy by supporting
thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.”
A key element of the Type 31 programme is the potential to work with the UK Government to secure a
range of export opportunities, further supporting the UK economy and jobs. Arrowhead 140, the base
design of the Type 31, has already been successfully exported to the Indonesian and Polish
governments, with both programmes already in build in the respective countries.