Steel cutting for HMS Formidable marks expansion of Royal Navy

On October 9, Babcock’s Rosyth shipyard in Scotland celebrated a key milestone with the ceremonial cutting of steel for HMS Formidable, the third Type 31 frigate in the Royal Navy’s Inspiration-class fleet.

This frigate is part of an order for five ships, with the first two—Venture and Active—having already undergone keel-laying ceremonies in 2022 and 2023. The construction of HMS Formidable is expected to take around four years, aiming for a launch in 2028, representing a significant investment in the UK's defense capabilities and reinforcing international partnerships, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The Type 31 program has garnered global attention, with countries like Indonesia and Poland also developing vessels based on the Arrowhead 140 design. A Polish delegation, including officials from PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, attended the steel-cutting ceremony, highlighting the growing collaboration in naval defense between the UK and Poland. This initiative aims to enhance maritime security while stimulating local economies.

HMS Formidable, along with its sister ships, will measure approximately 460 feet in length and weigh 5,700 tons. Powered by a combination of diesel and electric engines, it is designed to reach speeds exceeding 28 knots and has a range of 9,300 miles. The frigate will be equipped with a 57mm Mk110 naval gun, Sea Ceptor surface-to-air missiles, and a versatile mission bay suitable for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters.

The Type 31 frigates are pivotal to the Royal Navy's modernization efforts, set to replace older Type 23 frigates with a focus on modularity and upgrade potential, ensuring their longevity. Designed for export, these ships appeal to allied navies due to their affordability and flexibility.

The construction program is projected to create over 1,000 jobs at the Rosyth shipyard, alongside further opportunities throughout the UK’s supply chain, significantly boosting the economy. The project is also expected to contribute millions to regional economies, driven by the demand for a wide range of domestically sourced materials and components.