Type 31 programme passes design review milestone
The Type 31 programme for the UK RN has completed the the Whole Ship Critical Design Review. (Photo: Babcock)
Shipbuilder Babcock expects to cut the first steel on the first Type 31 frigate by late 2021.
The Type 31 frigate programme for the UK RN has passed the Whole Ship Critical Design Review (WSCDR) stage, shipbuilder Babcock announced on 27 April.
The WSCDR was held virtually over a period of ten days and comprised several specific reviews to assess the maturity of the individual systems and equipment for the £1.99 billion ($2.65 billion) Type 31 programme.
An independent board of 12 experts reviewed the design, interrogated the engineering team and provided advice to Babcock as the Design Authority.
Babcock noted: ‘Completing the Whole Ship CDR provides [the Babcock-led] Team 31 with the confidence to fully develop the 3D CAD [computer-aided design] model and move towards the generation of build drawings in readiness for first steel cut and ship assembly later this year.’
The Type 31 frigate programme was revealed in August 2020 to have entered the Whole Ship Engineering Phase and was on track to start production in 2021.
Team 31 intends to complete construction of the fifth and final Type 31 in 2027, Shephard Defence Insight reports.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Inspiration Class (Type 31) (1-5) [UK]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Coast Guard sets sail in search of robotics and CUAS capabilities]()
US Coast Guard sets sail in search of robotics and CUAS capabilities
The USCG has been increasing efforts to accelerate the process to develop, procure, deploy and sustain autonomous and counter-uncrewed systems across its fleet.
-
![US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme]()
US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme
The US Navy intends to enhance the integration and lethality of the Aegis capabilities onboard its cruisers and destroyers.
-
![Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist]()
Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist
Austal signs long-delayed Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, but schedule risks and programme delays still loom over Canberra’s naval plans.
