The UK Royal Navy’s 6,300-ton Inspiration Class frigate, HMS Active, has achieved a significant milestone with its successful float-off. Engineers from DE&S and the Royal Navy provided support during the operation.

Float-Off Achieved with Modern Techniques

A London-based company oversaw the float-off, utilizing a modern, efficient, and low-risk method for transitioning the vessel to the next stage of its build program. This method involved the use of the Malin Augustea barge, previously used for HMS Venturer, the first in the Type 31 class.

Program Leadership Praises Progress

“The float-off of HMS Active is another landmark moment for the Type 31 programme and a proud day for everyone involved in her delivery,” stated Steve Ranyard, DE&S Type 31 Team Leader. He emphasized the pace and professionalism of the team at Rosyth and across the UK supply chain.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The Type 31 program is a significant driver of economic growth, sustaining approximately 2,500 highly skilled jobs. Of these, 1,250 are directly employed at Babcock in Rosyth, with another 1,250 across the wider UK supply chain.

Recent Milestones and Future Plans

This milestone follows a dual celebration at Rosyth in late February, where HMS Active rolled out of the Venturer Building Assembly Hall. Simultaneously, steel was cut for HMS Bulldog, the fourth vessel in the class.

Following the float-off, HMS Active will undergo further outfit work before commencing test and commissioning phases.

Role in the Royal Navy’s Future Fleet

The five Inspiration Class frigates will play a crucial role in the Royal Navy’s surface fleet. They are designed to undertake a variety of missions, including interception, intelligence gathering, defense engagement, and humanitarian support.

National Security and NATO Asset

Commodore Stephen Roberts, T31 Programme Senior Responsible Owner, Royal Navy, highlighted the ship’s importance, stating, “HMS Active will serve as a formidable defender of our national security and a powerful asset for NATO in an increasingly dangerous world.”

All five ships are scheduled to be in service by the early 2030s. The Type 31 program aligns with the government’s Plan for Change and the National Shipbuilding Strategy, aiming to strengthen national security and transform the UK’s naval shipbuilding capabilities.

Technical Specifications

Each Type 31 frigate will be approximately 140 meters in length and displace over 6,300 tons. The vessels are powered by four MTU 20V 8000 M71 engines, each producing over 8,000kW, resulting in a total power output of 32,000kW.