Now seven Royal Navy warships being built in Scotland

The recent steel-cutting ceremony for HMS Formidable, the third Type 31 frigate, is especially significant as the programme to build 13 frigates on Scotland is now over halfway.

With this latest development, there are currently seven Royal Navy ships under construction in Scotland.

This includes three Type 31 frigates: HMS Venturer, HMS Active, and HMS Formidable, as well as four Type 26 frigates: HMS Glasgow, HMS Cardiff, HMS Belfast, and HMS Birmingham.

These ships, built in Scotland, are supporting thousands of jobs and will be a critical part of how the Royal Navy keeps our country safe.

2/2 pic.twitter.com/bX6Xm2msOr

— Scotland Office (@ScotSecofState) October 8, 2024

The Type 31 frigate, also known as the Inspiration-class, is a class of general-purpose warships being built for the Royal Navy. Developed under the Royal Navy’s “National Shipbuilding Strategy,” the Type 31 aims to provide a versatile and cost-effective platform, complementing the more advanced Type 26 frigates. Each vessel in the class is designed to displace around 5,700 tonnes, with a length of approximately 138 metres. The design focuses on modularity, allowing for adaptability in various roles, including maritime security, disaster relief, and low-intensity operations, alongside its core warfighting capabilities. With a focus on export potential, the Type 31 is intended to be an attractive option for allied navies seeking a capable yet affordable frigate.

In terms of capabilities, the Type 31 frigate is equipped with a range of sensors and weapon systems suitable for multi-role operations. It features a 57 mm Mk 110 naval gun as its primary armament, complemented by 40 mm cannons for close-range defence. The frigate is also fitted with the Sea Ceptor surface-to-air missile system, providing area defence against airborne threats. Additionally, it is capable of deploying a range of smaller boats and unmanned vehicles from a spacious mission bay, enabling flexibility in tasks like boarding operations or mine countermeasures. The Type 31’s flight deck can accommodate a medium-sized helicopter, such as the Wildcat or Merlin, further enhancing its reach and capabilities for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and reconnaissance missions.

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The Type 26 frigate, also known as the City-class, is a class of advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) vessels being built for the Royal Navy. Designed as part of the Royal Navy’s modernisation efforts, the Type 26 is intended to replace the ageing Type 23 frigates, particularly in the ASW role. Each ship in this class has a displacement of around 8,000 tonnes and measures approximately 149.9 metres in length. The Type 26 is characterised by its focus on stealth, featuring a hull design and noise-dampening measures to minimise acoustic signatures, making it highly effective in detecting and countering submarines. The first four vessels, HMS Glasgow, HMS Cardiff, HMS Belfast, and HMS Birmingham, are currently under construction, with with the work on the rest of the order at various stages of procurement.

In terms of capabilities, the Type 26 frigate is equipped with an array of advanced sensors and weapons. It is armed with a 5-inch Mk 45 naval gun, providing long-range fire support, and is equipped with the Sea Ceptor missile system for area air defence. For ASW, the frigate carries powerful sonar systems, including a towed array, and can deploy anti-submarine torpedoes. The Type 26’s mission bay is designed to support a range of operations, from humanitarian aid to counter-piracy, allowing for the deployment of unmanned systems and small boats. Additionally, the flight deck is capable of supporting a range of helicopters, including the Merlin, which enhances its ASW and reconnaissance capabilities. With its combination of advanced systems and modular design, the Type 26 is intended to be a versatile platform that can adapt to a variety of operational demands.