Babcock has announced a significant milestone in its partnership with the UK Royal Navy by securing a contract valued at 65 million pounds (approximately 84 million dollars) to undertake the Capability Insertion Period (CIP) for the Navy’s Type 31 frigates. This pivotal program aims to integrate and test various upgrades designed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Type 31 class vessels.
In comments regarding the contract, Paul Watson, Managing Director of Arrowhead at Babcock, emphasized that this new agreement extends the military capabilities of the frigates beyond the initial specifications laid out in the design and build agreement signed back in 2019. He expressed confidence that Babcock’s deep familiarity with the vessels and its innovative design approach would facilitate the seamless integration of advanced systems and their maintenance over time.
“As the design and build partner, Babcock is expertly placed to provide the know-how and technical information to deliver these important activities in the development of the ships through the CIP,” Watson remarked, highlighting the company’s commitment to the enhancement of the Royal Navy’s fleet.
Babcock is tasked with delivering a total of five Type 31 general-purpose frigates to the UK Royal Navy, with the construction of the third vessel having commenced in October of the previous year at the Rosyth dockyard in Scotland. This facility is recognized as one of the largest maritime manufacturing and repair hubs in the UK.
The Type 31 frigates are set to succeed the existing fleet of Type 23 general-purpose frigates, thereby modernizing the Navy’s capabilities. These new vessels are anticipated to join active service by 2028, each equipped to host up to 105 crew members. The Type 31 frigates will operate in conjunction with the newly developed Type 26 frigates, which are tailored specifically for submarine detection operations, thereby enhancing the Royal Navy’s operational breadth and effectiveness in maritime security.
