• Thales has successfully completed Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) for both the Mission System and Combat System on the Royal Navy’s new Type 31 Inspiration-class frigates – marking two major milestones in one of the UK’s most significant naval programmes.
  • Working as part of an integrated international team and in close partnership with Babcock and the Royal Navy, Thales has now completed all core factory-based activity for the programme – further reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the delivery of complex naval systems for the UK.
  • Combat Management System Tacticos functions as the operational heart of UK’s Type 31 Frigates. Thales combat management system will be the central command and decision-making element of the frigate’s combat system. Its function and performance – supporting sensor control, picture compilation, situation assessment, action support and weapon control – are critical to the operational effectiveness of a naval vessel.

“This has been an incredible achievement over the last 18 months in terms of learning, building, collaborating and holding steadfast towards delivering this mission-critical commitment to our customer,” said James Wooldridge, Programme Director, Type 31. “The team has demonstrated some incredible resilience innovation and commitment.”

The Mission System FAT was completed at the end of April 2025. Delivered to a high standard by Thales’ international team in close collaboration with industry partners, the achievement showcased the quality, openness and technical expertise that have defined Thales’ approach to the Type 31 delivery – earning strong praise from the Royal Navy.

The Combat System FAT followed at the end of June 2025. Built around Thales’ latest version of TACTICOS Combat Management System – delivered by Thales in the Netherlands – it includes the latest software release that enables Type 31’s operational capabilities, reinforcing TACTICOS’ position as a leading CMS for next-generation naval platforms. With all Factory Acceptance Tests now complete, the programme moves onto land-based testing at the Shore Integration Facility and installation on board HMS Venturer – construction, of which the first of five Type 31 frigates is already well underway at Babcock’s Rosyth facility.

Paul Watson, Arrowhead Managing Director at Babcock said: “The successful completion of the Mission and Combat Systems FATs marks another significant step forward for the Type 31 programme and reflects the strength of our collaboration with Thales and our wider industry partners. Together, we are delivering a world-class capability for the Royal Navy and creating a strong foundation for the future of the Inspiration Class frigates.”

Andy Laing, Managing Director, Above Water Systems UK, Thales, added: “Working closely with our Royal Navy and Babcock colleagues, we are delighted to have successfully completed this critical stage in the development of the Royal Navy’s new Type 31 frigates. It represents another demonstration of Thales’ proven ability to deliver integrated naval mission systems to the highest standards.”

The Type 31 programme underscores Thales’ long-standing commitment to supporting the Royal Navy with world-leading maritime technologies, while strengthening UK and European defence capability and industrial resilience.