The Type 31 class will be the new general-purpose frigates at the heart of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet deterring aggression and maintaining the security of the UK’s interests, working alongside our Allies to deliver credible UK warship presence across the globe.
What are Type 31 frigates?
The five T31s are replacing the five general purpose T23 frigates as they come out of service. They are specifically designed to fulfil a general-purpose role, and will be flexible and adaptable by design with mission bays to allow them to be re-equipped to fit whatever missions they are tasked to undertake – such as interception and disruption of those using the sea for unlawful purposes, collecting intelligence, conducting defence engagement, and assisting those in need
The vessels will be fitted with the world-leading UK-designed and manufactured missile system, in addition to a range of highly advanced weapons and sensor systems. They will also be fitted with a sophisticated combat system with a 4D air and surface surveillance and target indication radar, and capabilities to operate with a Merlin or Wildcat helicopter.
Built using a modular design allows for the easy swapping of systems and equipment based on the mission. This enables the Royal Navy to adapt the ships quickly to changing operational requirements.
Based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design, T31 is adaptable for the specific requirements of export customers and following contract awards in Poland and Indonesia respectively, international interest in the AH 140 remains strong and which the UK Government is supporting
The five T31s are replacing the five general purpose T23 frigates as they come out of service. They are specifically designed to fulfil a general-purpose role, and will be flexible and adaptable by design.
How is Type 31 delivered?
Babcock International was awarded the contract in November 2019 for the design and construction of five Type 31 frigates. The T31 frigates are being built and integrated at Babcock’s Rosyth facility, in Scotland.
The T31 programme will support around 2,500 jobs in total, including 1,250 jobs across the wider UK supply chain.
The five ships will be known as the Inspiration Class, representative of the Royal Navy’s future vision: HMS Venturer, HMS Active, HMS Formidable, HMS Bulldog and HMS Campbeltown.
HMS Venturer, the first Type 31 frigate, had steel cut in September 2021, signifying the start of production of the Inspiration Class. HMS Active, the second frigate, had steel cut in January 2023.
Meet our Ships Domain Team
Become part of the team
The Type 31 project team is responsible for all aspects of the delivery of the programme. Roles include design, engineering, safety, project delivery, ship build oversight, cost control, commercial management, transition to in service and acceptance.
The team is based at DE&S in Bristol and Navy Command in Portsmouth.
