Overview
- The ceremony followed naval tradition as the first module was lowered onto a commemorative coin before Babcock staff, Royal Navy personnel and international guests.
- Babcock expanded its partnership with HII to support complex assemblies for US Virginia-class submarines from the Rosyth site.
- Babcock, DE&S and Royal Navy leaders described the event as evidence of growing output at Rosyth and of the Type 31 programme meeting key milestones.
- Recent retirements, including HMS Lancaster, have reduced active frigate numbers, increasing the importance of timely Type 31 deliveries.
- The Type 31 uses Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design with a Thales combat system, with apprentices contributing as HMS Active is due to roll out next year and work begins on HMS Bulldog.