Why the CCV timetable depends on the chosen shipyard

Is the proposed Command and Control Vessel still more of a paper concept than a funded ship?

Yes. Its likely funding and design timetable points toward service around 2040 unless an available yard can adapt an existing hull much sooner.

The Command and Control Vessel remained a concept whose funding decisions would probably fall after the next parliamentary election. Design work around 2029 and firmer commitments by about 2033 would point toward service near 2040. That makes a 2035 Type 45 replacement date implausible. An earlier ship would require an available yard and a mature parent design. Babcock might adapt its Type 31 line, while BAE Systems remains occupied with Type 26 construction and would face a harder transition to a separate hull.