Thales ready to deliver high-performance mission and combat management systems for Type 31 frigates to the Royal Navy

Factory acceptance testing (FAT) of the mission system was completed at the end of April 2025, in close collaboration with Thales’ industrial partners. This illustrates the quality of Thales’ technical expertise, which has been praised by the Royal Navy.

 FAT testing of the combat system took place at the end of June 2025. Based on the latest version of the TACTICOS Combat Management System (CMS), delivered to the Netherlands by Thales, this system incorporates the latest software that allows the Type 31 frigates to benefit from exceptional operational capabilities. This reinforces TACTICOS’ positioning as the reference CMS for next-generation naval platforms. With all FAT testing now complete, the program will continue at the onshore integration site. The system will then be installed on board HMS Venturer, the first of five Type 31 Inspiration-class frigates, which is being built at Babcock’s site in Rosyth, Scotland.

 Paul Watson, Babcock’s Managing Director in charge of the Arrowhead frigates, said: “The successful completion of the FAT tests of the mission and combat systems marks a very significant further milestone for the Type 31 programme and reflects the strength of our collaboration with Thales and all our industrial partners. Together, we are providing the Royal Navy with world-class capabilities and creating the solid foundations for the future Inspiration-class frigates.”

 Andy Laing, Managing Director, Above Water Systems, Thales in the UK, added: “Working closely with our partners at the Royal Navy and Babcock has enabled us to successfully complete this critical milestone in the development of the Royal Navy’s new Type 31 frigates. This is another demonstration of Thales’ proven ability to deliver integrated naval mission systems to the highest standards.”

 The Type 31 programme demonstrates Thales’ long-term commitment to the Royal Navy, with market-leading technologies, and strengthens the defence capabilities and industrial resilience of the UK and Europe.