Babcock unveils HMS Venturer, marking major milestone in UK Type 31 frigate programme

The 5,700-tonne, 139-metre vessel was carefully moved using Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), as engineers prepare her for entry into the water in the coming weeks. HMS Venturer is the first of five Inspiration-class frigates being built as part of a national programme to deliver all ships within a decade.

Based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design, the Type 31 class will become a core component of the Royal Navy fleet and has already seen export success in Indonesia and Poland. This underscores the platform’s role in enhancing allied interoperability and supporting global security.

Sir Nick Hine, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Marine Sector, said: “For the first time, we’re seeing HMS Venturer, the first of her class emerge from the build hall – a powerful symbol of UK naval ambition and sovereign capability. It marks another major milestone in a standout week for British shipbuilding, at a time when global uncertainty demands even greater defence capability.”

Highlighting the scale and speed of the project, he added: “Right here in Scotland, we are building five complex warships in a single yard, in just a decade, true world-class performance. This is an incredibly proud moment for everyone in Babcock and the wider programme partners.”

Minister for Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, welcomed the milestone, stating: “This government is committed to making Britain secure at home and strong abroad. HMS Venturer will be at the heart of the Royal Navy fleet, deterring aggression and supporting our Armed Forces.”

He also noted the shipbuilding effort’s broader impact: “Today’s significant milestone shows this government’s commitment to grow the economy by supporting thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.”

Steve Ranyard, Type 31 Team Leader at DE&S, commented: “Seeing HMS Venturer reach this pivotal milestone is a cause for celebration for all those working on the programme to make this day a reality. The roll-out of HMS Venturer paves the way for the success of the entire fleet of the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates.”

Cdre Steve Roberts, Type 31 Senior Responsible Owner, said: “Seeing HMS Venturer, the first of the Type 31 Inspiration Class, unveiled is a proud moment not just for the Royal Navy and her crew, but all the organisations in Defence that have contributed to this key milestone. This is the first of many exciting stages for the Type 31 programme with now three of the five ships progressing in build.”

Cdr Chris Cozens, Senior Naval Officer of HMS Venturer, reflected on the build process: “The Ship’s Company have seen HMS Venturer grow from the keel up inside the build hall. This will be the first time Babcock and the Royal Navy can unveil this Next Generation Frigate to the public.”

He added: “This moment is taking the ship another step closer to where it is needed and contributing to the UK’s security and prosperity.” After her float-off, HMS Venturer will return to dock at Rosyth for outfitting and systems integration before commencing sea trials and entering operational service.