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12h ago

Babcock, BAE Systems Bofors Sign MoU to Back Type 31 Naval Guns

The alignment positions the firms to deliver UK in-service support by pairing OEM authority with Babcock’s sustainment role.

The third of the Type 31 frigate has now entered the continuous manufacturing phase. Credit: Babcock

Overview

  • The 18 September memorandum outlines cooperation on through-life support for Bofors 57mm Mk3 and 40mm Mk4 systems fitted to the five Type 31 Inspiration-class frigates.
  • The agreement is a non-binding step that precedes any UK Ministry of Defence award for a formal in-service support contract.
  • Babcock and Bofors teams are already integrating the weapons at Rosyth with acceptance and UK service preparations under way on lead ship HMS Venturer.
  • Each Type 31 will carry one 57mm main gun and two 40mm mounts to strengthen short-range defense against small boats, drones and similar threats.
  • Babcock points to its UK support track record for the 4.5-inch Mk8, Phalanx CIWS and GSA9 fire-control system as a foundation for the prospective role.