Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 38:17-39:23

A Type 31 batch could avoid a fresh Type 32 competition

A Type 32 procurement question shows how naming a new class can trigger a fresh competition even when shipyard capacity points toward another Type 31 batch.

FrigatesNaval ProcurementRoyal NavyType 31 Frigate
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Question

What did the reported cancellation of Type 32 mean for the Royal Navy's frigate program?

Short answer

The requirement was more likely to reappear as a second Type 31 batch, avoiding the expense of competing an entirely new class.

Notes

The British construction program already constrained who could build another general-purpose frigate. Calling the project Type 32 would make it a new class and require another bidding process, adding cost and legal exposure. A second batch of Type 31s could use the established design and builder. Type 26 and the future Type 83 would continue to occupy the other suitable capacity.