HMS Venturer ventures forth

Image copyright Babcock

Marking the transition from the construction phase into final preparations for HMS Venturer’s first entry into the water, the 5,700 tonne, 139-metre-long ship was carefully positioned onto Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), using specially designed transport cradles for the significant move.

Procured and managed by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the construction of the Type 31 fleet of five ships, known collectively as the Inspiration Class, supports around 1,250 highly skilled jobs at Babcock, as well as 150 apprenticeships. A further 1,250 roles in the UK supply chain are also supported through the contract.

From maritime security patrols and disaster-relief support, to intelligence gathering and Defence engagement, these ships will be at the heart of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet on global operations.

Steve Ranyard, Type 31 Team Leader at DE&S, said: “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. Once complete, they will be at the forefront of deterring aggression and maintaining the security and prosperity of our nation and our allies.”

Type 31 ships are based on a modular design that makes them easier to upgrade and update systems and equipment through life. The vessels will be fitted with Sea Ceptor the world-leading UK-designed and manufactured missile system, in addition to a range of highly advanced weapons and sensor systems. They will also be fitted with a sophisticated combat system with a 4D air and surface surveillance and target indication radar, and capabilities to operate with a Merlin or Wildcat helicopter.

Cdre Steve Roberts, Type 31 Senior Responsible Officer, 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. I look forward with anticipation to the moment when we will see HMS Venturer enter the water in the very near future.”
 
The programme is making rapid progress and is now well into its multi-ship build phase with three ships in production. The first and second of the five Type 31s will float from Rosyth in the next year and the first steel cut for the fourth ship is scheduled for 2026.
 
The Type 31 class is based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design and can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of export customers too.

David Lockwood, Babcock CEO, 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.   
 
“Right here in Scotland we are building five complex warships in a single yard in just a decade, world-class performance. This is an incredibly proud moment for everyone in Babcock and the wider programme partners. Not only does it reflect the hard, work dedication and exceptional skills of our people, but this programme and the other work that we do here in Rosyth contribute significantly to the prosperity of the local and national economy.”  
   
After HMS Venturer has completed the next process known as float off, she will return to Rosyth to undergo extensive outfitting and systems integration in dock before her sea trials and entering operational service.