Type 31: Thales completes mission system FAT

Thales has completed the factory acceptance tests for the Tacticos combat system as well as the mission systems, clearing the way for them to be integrated into the UK’s Type 31 Inspiration-class, general purpose frigates, according to a September 4 press release. 

Thales was selected in February 2020 to provide the combat system for the Type 31s, as well as the communications, navigation, and bridge systems. It is also the mission systems integrator, playing a key role in the programme. 

A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a comprehensive inspection and testing process conducted at a manufacturer’s facility before a piece of equipment or a system is shipped to the customer. The main goal is to ensure the equipment meets all the technical, functional, and safety requirements specified in the purchase contract. It’s an important step for both the manufacturer and the customer, as it helps identify and fix any issues in a controlled environment, which is much more efficient and less costly than making repairs on-site after delivery.

The FAT for the mission system was completed in April 2025, and followed by the combat system FAT in June. “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,” the press release explains. 

Thales has established a new facility in the UK to support delivery of the Type 31 programme. The Naval Combat Management Centre in Crawley, Sussex, was announced in 2020 to increase the Thales mission system footprint in the UK, as well as its personnel numbers in order to support Type 31 delivery. 

Tech profile: Type 31

HMS Venturer being towed to complete her construction in Rosyth. Credit: Peter Devlin and Tim Edgeler/Babcock International

Size and Displacement: The frigate has a displacement of around 5,700 tonnes and measures just under 140 metres in length.
Crew: The core crew is approximately 100 to 120 personnel, with an additional capacity to accommodate up to 40 more.
Performance: Top speed exceeding 26 knots and a range of 7,500 nautical miles. The ship is powered by four Rolls-Royce/MTU 20V 8000 M71 diesel engines and four Rolls-Royce/MTU 16V 2000 M41B generators. It utilises two shafts with controllable pitch propellers.
Mission Systems: Thales TACTICOS Combat Management System, the primary radar is the Thales NS110 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.
Armament: The frigates will have the Sea Ceptor missile system, which uses the Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM). While it will initially be fitted with this system, there is a confirmed plan to integrate the Mark 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) during a future upgrade period to enable the use of a wider range of missiles. They are also expected to be armed with one Bofors 57mm Mk3 main gun and two Bofors 40mm Mk4 secondary guns.
Aviation: The frigate has a flight deck and hangar capable of accommodating a Wildcat or Merlin helicopter. The hangar can also be used to carry larger aircraft, such as the Chinook, for special operations or transport.

Calibre comment

The Royal Navy is facing the prospect of a real decline in the number of its surface vessels, which has already impacted its ability to meet the operational demands placed upon it.The aging Type 23 fleet, which the Type 31 will replace, has been reduced significantly in recent years. It is therefore important that the Type 31, and Type 26 programmes proceed smoothly into service to ensure the Navy can perform as required.

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published on September 5, 2025. The lead image shows HMS Venturer, the lead ship of the Type 31 in-build in 2023. Credit: LPhot Bill Spurr/UK MOD © Crown copyright 2024.