UK’s Type 31 Frigate Program Gains Momentum with New Construction and Export Orders

The United Kingdom’s Type 31 frigate program is progressing with the construction of additional vessels and increasing international interest, signaling a revival of British shipbuilding. The program aims to deliver a modern, versatile, and cost-effective general-purpose frigate for the Royal Navy and export markets.

Recent Developments

Recent announcements highlight the program’s advancement. Babcock Group, the primary contractor, has initiated the steel-cutting ceremony for the fourth ship, HMS Bulldog. The second ship, HMS Active, has completed final assembly and undocking, moving into the outfitting and system commissioning phase. [1]

UK Defence Secretary Pollard has hailed the project as a benchmark for the revitalization of the British shipbuilding industry. [3]

Origins and Requirements

The Type 31 frigate program emerged from a need to address a capability gap in the Royal Navy. In 2015, the British government reduced the order for Type 26 frigates from 13 to 8 due to design complexities. As the existing Type 23 frigates aged, a cost-effective general-purpose frigate was required to maintain naval capabilities.

In 2019, the Ministry of Defence selected Babcock Group’s “Arrow-140” design, contracting them to build five new ships within a decade for a total of £2 billion (approximately $2.663 billion USD at the time). [1]

Design and Capabilities

The Type 31 frigate, also known as the Inspiration class, is designed for versatility, high deployment rates, and adaptability. Key specifications include:

• Length: 138.7 meters (UK & Poland) / 140 meters (Indonesia)
• Displacement: Over 7,000 tons
• Speed: In excess of 28 knots (52 km/h; 32 mph)
• Endurance: 9,000 nautical miles

The ship features a modular design, allowing for quick reconfiguration with different mission modules for anti-submarine warfare, anti-mine operations, and other roles. It can operate Merlin and Wildcat helicopters from its flight deck, and is capable of supporting Chinook heavy-lift helicopters in emergencies. [1]

The Type 31 frigates will work alongside Type 26 frigates to form the core of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet, including escorting aircraft carrier battle groups.

Economic Impact and Localization

The Type 31 program is a key component of the UK’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, emphasizing localized supporting facilities. Construction is centered at Rosyth Shipyard in Scotland, creating approximately 1,250 high-skilled jobs and supporting thousands more in the supply chain. Over 80% of the contract value is allocated to UK companies, bolstering the industrial base for future projects like the Type 83 destroyer. [1]

International Sales

The UK views the Type 31 frigate as a viable export product. Indonesia has ordered four frigates based on the Type 31 design (the Balaputradewa-class), with the first launched in December 2025. [1] Poland has also ordered three customized versions, which are currently under construction. [1] Babcock Group is actively pursuing bids in Denmark, Chile, and other countries.

Challenges and Costs

While the program is progressing, it faces challenges. The initial estimated cost per ship was approximately £250 million. Though, due to supply chain disruptions and inflation, the estimated cost rose to £317 million in 2023, raising concerns about cost control. [1] upgrades like the MK41 Vertical Launch System were not included in the initial contract and will require additional funding. [1]

Current Status of Vessels

• HMS Venturer: Expected delivery by the end of 2026, initial operating capability by 2027. [2] Completed first entry to water in 2025. [4]
• HMS Active: Final assembly completed and undocked, entering outfitting and commissioning. [3]
• HMS Formidable: Segmented construction underway, keel laying in 2025. [2]
• HMS Bulldog: Steel-cutting ceremony held.
• HMS Campbelltown: Keel laying expected within the year.