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HMS Active marks milestone moment with float off
25 March 2026
Water laps against the hull of new frigate HMS Active after a delicate operation to lower the Type 31 frigate into her natural habitat for the first time.
Since emerging from the assembly hall on a self-propelled modular transporter (a gigantic remote-controlled trailer), Active has been manoeuvred on to a semi-submersible barge ready to be floated off to allow the frigate to be completed.
The first ship in the class, HMS Venturer, was floated off in the open waters of the Forth then towed back to Babcock International Group’s yard at Rosyth.
In Active’s case, the barge was submerged in the dockyard’s huge basin – sparing the time/effort/cost of a complex operation in the Forth estuary.
Engineers from the Royal Navy and DE&S supported the float-off of the Inspiration Class frigate and use of the barge is also operated in the same capacity for the Type 26 programme.
HMS Active will now undergo further outfit work before tests and commissioning takes place.
Commodore Stephen Roberts, T31 Programme Senior Responsible Owner, Royal Navy, said: “HMS Active will serve as a formidable defender of our national security and a powerful asset for NATO in an increasingly dangerous world.
“For the Royal Navy the float off provides a visual opportunity to highlight the pride and importance of having world class ships to protect the nation from those who would wish to do us harm.”
Steve Ranyard, DE&S Type 31 Team Leader, added: “The float-off of HMS Active is another landmark moment for the Type 31 programme and a proud day for everyone involved in her delivery.
“This milestone reflects the pace and professionalism of the entire programme team at Rosyth and across the UK supply chain, as we continue to make real, tangible progress towards delivering a capable and versatile new frigate for the Royal Navy.”
This latest milestone follows the dual celebration at Rosyth at the end of February, when HMS Active rolled out of the purpose-built Venturer Building Assembly Hall in a spectacular evening ceremony.
On the same day, steel was cut on HMS Bulldog, the fourth vessel in the class.
The five Inspiration-class frigates will form a key part of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet, undertaking missions including interception, intelligence gathering, defence engagement and humanitarian support.