Two new Scottish-built warships reach key stages of construction

Two new Scottish-built warships have reached key stages of construction as part of UK plans to boost its navy.

The completion of construction on HMS Active was marked in a ceremony in Rosyth, where it was “rolled out” from the Babcock shipbuilding facility ahead of its final fit-out.

Construction has meanwhile started on HMS Bulldog at the same site, following a steel-cutting ceremony.

They are two of five 5,700-tonne frigates being built in Scotland to be used in the Royal Navy’s surface fleet.

Along with the Venturer, Formidable and Campbeltown, they are expected to be in service by the early 2030s.

First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins said the two frigates would be the “workhorses” of the fleet.

He said: “These versatile frigates will be workhorses of the fleet, capable of operating across a wide spectrum of maritime operations.

“As we build towards a hybrid navy that combines crewed vessels with uncrewed systems, the Type 31s will provide the flexible, adaptable platforms we need to meet evolving threats.”

Defence minister Luke Pollard said: “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.

“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.”