Royal Navy frigate programme update
Here we summarise recent news and developments concerning the Royal Navy’s future frigate programmes. More
BAE Systems
Spearfish Mod 1 torpedo goes into service after final trials by HMS Audacious
Already one of the finest heavyweight torpedoes in the world, the programme to further enhance the accuracy and lethality of Spearfish is now complete. After extensive development and trials, the weapon has now been declared operational by the RN.
The first Type 26 frigate hull – HMS Glasgow coming together
The stern block of the first Type 26 frigate, HMS Glasgow was rolled out of the build hall on 29th April and joined with the forward block. When they are welded together the hull will be structurally complete.
Taking shape – forward section of first Type 26 frigate HMS Glasgow rolled out of build hall
On 16th April, the forward section of HMS Glasgow was brought out of the Ship Block Outfit Hall in Govan shipyard. This photo essay covers this event as the lead vessel of this global programme makes its first steps towards looking like a warship.More
Novel technologies in anti-submarine warfare
The helicopter-dropped torpedo is the primary method employed by navies to prosecute submarine contacts. As underwater threats are increasing and diversifying, at the same time new technology offers alternative ways to counter the submarine. Here we examine some of the options for the Royal Navy.
Progress on the Royal Navy’s Dreadnought class submarine programme
The first of Britain’s new nuclear deterrent submarines, HMS Dreadnought has now been under construction for over 4 years. Although still relatively early days and available information is inevitably limited, some further details of the boat’s design and progress on this vast project have emerged since our first article on the subject in 2017.
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Real hope for a bigger Royal Navy – the Type 32 frigate concept
As part of the Integrated Review announcements on 19th November, the Type 32 frigate concept emerged blinking into the light of public gaze for the first time. In this speculative article, we consider the possible design of this vessel and when it may enter service.
Tamar on the Thames – the Royal Navy’s newest warship on show in London
The 4th Batch II River-class OPV, HMS Tamar spent the last week in the high profile berth alongside HMS Belfast in London. We visited the ship to hear about her progress.
Warship building in the pandemic – progress on the Type 26 frigate
Like every aspect of life in the UK, the industry that supports the Royal Navy has been impacted by the effects of COVID-19. We spoke to BAE Systems, the Ministry of Defence’s largest supplier, about how they have adapted to the new conditions.