Babcock Awarded $84M Contract to Boost UK Type 31 Frigates with Advanced Upgrades

In a major boost to the UK Royal Navy’s future surface fleet, Babcock has secured a £65 million (approximately $84 million) contract to implement a series of vital capability upgrades for the new Type 31 frigates. This important step, known as the Capability Insertion Period (CIP), aims to enhance the operational performance and flexibility of these next-generation warships.

The CIP focuses on integrating and testing new technologies and systems that will strengthen the frigates’ combat and mission capabilities. Paul Watson, Managing Director of Arrowhead at Babcock, emphasized that the contract significantly builds upon the original design and construction agreement signed back in 2019. He also highlighted Babcock’s deep knowledge of the vessel design, which will ensure seamless system integration and efficient long-term support.

"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 said.

The Type 31 Frigate Program

The Type 31 frigates, also known as the Inspiration-class, are a class of five general-purpose warships currently under construction for the Royal Navy. These ships are intended to replace the aging Type 23 general-purpose frigates and are being built at Babcock’s advanced shipbuilding facility in Rosyth, Scotland.

Construction on the third vessel began in October last year, marking steady progress in the timeline that aims for all five ships to enter service by 2028.

Key Specifications of the Type 31 Frigates

• Displacement: Around 5,700 tonnes

• Length: Approximately 138 meters

• Speed: In excess of 28 knots

• Range: Over 7,500 nautical miles

• Crew Capacity: Core crew of 105 with additional accommodation for mission-specific personnel

• Main Armament: 57mm main gun, 40mm secondary guns, and space for containerized mission modules

• Aviation Capability: Flight deck and hangar to support a Merlin helicopter and unmanned aerial systems

• Mission Flexibility: Equipped with flexible mission bays and modular design for rapid role adaptation

The Type 31 will serve a wide range of tasks, from maritime security and anti-piracy to humanitarian assistance and joint operations with allies. Designed for adaptability, affordability, and rapid deployment, these frigates reflect a modern naval approach suited to global challenges.

Once operational, the Type 31s will operate alongside the more specialized Type 26 frigates, which are tailored for anti-submarine warfare. Together, they form the backbone of the Royal Navy’s future surface combatant fleet.

Babcock’s new contract ensures that the Type 31s will not only meet current defense standards but also remain upgradeable and relevant for decades to come.