Babcock marks dual milestones as HMS Bulldog build begins and HMS Active rolls out at Rosyth yard

The ceremonial steel cut for HMS Bulldog marked the official start of construction on the fourth Inspiration-class frigate. Meanwhile, HMS Active, the second ship in the class, emerged from the purpose-built ship assembly hall ahead of entering the water for the first time.

Guests from the UK and overseas attended the event and viewed the facilities at Rosyth that support the design and build work. The advanced manufacturing site underpins the modern, modular construction approach being used for the programme.

Babcock said lessons from each vessel are being embedded into future builds, with experience in sequencing, integration and supply chain management shaping delivery plans. Design improvements from the first two ships are already improving efficiency on ships three and four, including increased compartment and system outfitting in manufacturing bays before main block assembly to reduce integration time in the build hall.

David Lockwood, Chief Executive of Babcock, said: “Delivering the Steel Cut for HMS Bulldog and the rollout of HMS Active on the same day is a powerful demonstration of the drive and delivery focus of our Type 31 programme as we build the next modern, future ready fleet for the Royal Navy. These milestones show the maturity of our facility, the success of the design and build process, and the skill and dedication of our Babcock team.

“We are not only building a new class of ship at Rosyth, we are also at the forefront of a national endeavour that is strengthening the UK’s shipbuilding industry, supporting sovereign and allied maritime capability, while creating an advanced industrial footprint and expertise that will support the future of global shipbuilding for generations to come.”

The Type 31 programme plays a central role in supporting the UK’s sovereign defence capability, with most work taking place in Fife and supported by a network of UK and international suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises. It sustains around 2,500 highly skilled jobs and strengthens the UK’s ability to design, build and integrate complex warships, as well as export this expertise.

The Arrowhead 140 frigate design, on which the UK’s Type 31 is based, has also been selected by Poland for its Miecznik programme and established in Indonesia, where multiple ships based on the design are now under construction, including two new design and build licences recently secured.

Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said: “These milestones show Scottish shipbuilding at its best. From starting construction for HMS Bulldog to rolling out the impressive HMS Active, this programme is delivering world-class warships for the Royal Navy and real economic benefits for communities across Scotland and the wider UK.

HMS Bulldog has officially entered build.

The ceremonial Steel Cut for our fourth Type 31 frigate marks another major step forward for our programme, joining a production line that is gathering real speed.

More to come from Rosyth later this evening.https://t.co/ZoTM5OWNVv pic.twitter.com/35Y3qBpMJg

— Babcock International (@Babcockplc) February 24, 2026

“The frigates will serve our nation for decades to come, and the skills and infrastructure we’re building here will secure the future of Scottish shipbuilding for generations.”

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Today’s ceremony is testament to the skill, dedication and innovation of the workforce at Babcock – and a powerful symbol of Scotland’s enduring contribution to security in an uncertain world.

“Babcock’s work to develop future talent by supporting apprenticeships and engaging with local colleges on skills is absolutely vital. But the company’s efforts to ensure that talent is retained in Scotland is even more crucial to our communities and our economy.

“Investing in shipbuilding and the wider defence sector is investing in the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers, ensuring Scotland remains a global leader in advanced manufacturing. That’s why the Scottish Government has provided more than £90 million to aerospace, defence, marine and space companies through enterprise agency funding since 2006.”

Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse said: “These milestones reflect the momentum, ambition and national commitment behind the regeneration of our future frigate force.

“The Type 31 Inspiration class represents a major step forward in modernising our fleet. These are capable and adaptable ships, designed to give the Royal Navy the flexibility it needs in a fast-changing strategic environment.

“Their combat systems and modular design will allow upgrades throughout their life, ensuring they can meet both today’s threats and those we cannot yet see.”

The five frigates will form a key element of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet, carrying out missions including interception, intelligence gathering, defence engagement and humanitarian support. The first ship, HMS Venturer, rolled out from the purpose-built Venturer Building in mid-2025, and the keel of HMS Formidable was laid at the end of last year, marking the start of assembly for the third vessel.