Babcock marks milestone in royal Navy expansion with steel cutting of HMS formidable
Babcock has marked a significant milestone in naval defense with the cutting of steel for HMS Formidable, the third vessel in the five-ship Inspiration-class frigate series under construction for the Royal Navy at its Rosyth facility in Scotland.
Babcock has marked a significant milestone in naval defense with the cutting of steel for HMS Formidable, the third vessel in the five-ship Inspiration-class frigate series under construction for the Royal Navy at its Rosyth facility in Scotland. This ceremony not only signifies the launch of the build program but also underscores the impressive momentum of the Type 31 initiative.
This development comes just 20 months after the steel cutting ceremony for the second ship, HMS Active, demonstrating the rapid progress being made in enhancing the UK’s sovereign defense capabilities. The first Type 31 Frigate, HMS Venturer, is also nearing structural completion, with its final unit now added alongside HMS Active in the assembly hall.
The ceremony, themed “Formidable Engineering,” was attended by Babcock employees, including representatives from the latest apprentice and graduate cohort, as well as senior guests from the UK Government, Royal Navy, Trades Unions, and international defense industry representatives. Guests were given an inside look at the build program while engaging with local school children in a STEM-focused event, highlighting the company’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers.
Babcock is set to enhance its workforce significantly, creating 1,000 new roles at Rosyth over the next four years, which will include 400 apprenticeships and positions for skilled engineers and tradespeople. This investment not only aims to bolster the Type 31 program but also supports the UK economy and local communities. Notably, over 100 new apprentices and graduates have joined Babcock this year alone.
A crucial aspect of the Type 31 program involves collaboration with the UK Government to explore a range of export opportunities, further bolstering the UK economy and job market. The Arrowhead 140, which serves as the foundation for the Type 31 design, has already seen success abroad, with contracts secured from the Indonesian and Polish governments, both of which are currently advancing in their respective shipbuilding programs.
Babcock’s endeavors reflect a robust commitment to innovation and development in the defense sector, reinforcing the UK’s position in the global naval industry.
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