THE £1.25 billion build of a new generation of Royal Navy warships will be undertaken in Scotland.
Babcock Team 31 has been selected by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) as the preferred bidder to deliver the five new Type 31 warships. The company’s Roysth facility will be the central point of construction.
Babcock say that the programme will utilise a workforce of around 1250, with 150 new technical apprenticeships likely to be developed. They also expect the work to support an additional 1250 roles within the wider UK supply chain.
Work will begin immediately following a formal contract award later this financial year, with detailed design work already underway and manufacturing commencing in 2021 with it being scheduled for conclusion in 2027.
Archie Bethel, chief executive of Babcock, said, “It has been a tough competition and we are absolutely delighted that Arrowhead 140 has been recognised as offering the best design, build and delivery solution for the UK’s Royal Navy Type 31 frigates.
“Driven by innovation and backed by experience and heritage, Arrowhead 140 is a modern warship that will meet the maritime threats of today and tomorrow, with British ingenuity and engineering at its core. It provides a flexible, adaptable platform that delivers value for money and supports the UK’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.”
