Photo: BAE SystemsThe construction of HMS Sheffield, an advanced anti-submarine warfare ship for the Royal Navy, officially began on 28 November with a traditional steel-cutting ceremony in Glasgow. Nearly 2,000 jobs and apprenticeships will be supported through the production of the Type 26 frigate, providing valuable employment opportunities for skilled workers and apprentices in Scotland. Around 4,000 jobs will also be supported throughout the UK supply chain, in a boost to the economy.
HMS Sheffield is the fifth of eight Type 26 frigates being built in Scotland, marking another significant step forward in the City Class frigate programme, designed for a service life of at least 25 years, serving into the 2060s.
Representatives from
BAE Systems, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the Royal Navy, and the Government joined employees for the event, as an apprentice officially cut steel on HMS Sheffield.
Attending the ceremony, Maria Eagle MP, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, said: “This steel-cutting ceremony marks another key moment for both our Royal Navy and British shipbuilding. HMS Sheffield represents not just a cutting-edge addition to our fleet, but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting thousands of skilled jobs and economic growth across Scotland and the wider UK. This investment in our naval capability ensures we can continue to protect our nation’s interests while supporting British industry.”
Threats of the futureThe Type 26 frigates will replace the current Type 23 fleet and will be among the world’s most advanced warships, supporting the UK’s national security. Their primary role will be to protect the Royal Navy’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent and Carrier Strike Group.
These versatile ships will also support international operations, including counter-piracy missions and humanitarian relief work and will support the UK in creating a stronger defence, ensuring its Armed Forces are better equipped to tackle the threats of the future.
Sir Simon Lister, BAE Systems’ managing director (Naval Ships), said: “This is a proud moment for our talented teams across the UK who play their part in the design and construction of these important vessels. HMS Sheffield’s construction will benefit from a range of investments, which are transforming our digital and physical infrastructure and will consolidate a centre of excellence for UK shipbuilding in Glasgow. I would like to thank our customers and suppliers for their support and commitment as we take this programme forward together and deliver the next-generation frigates for the Royal Navy.”
HMS Sheffield is a name steeped in Royal Navy history, previously being used on several ships, including on a Town class cruiser which saw extensive action during the Second World War, and a Type 42 destroyer which was deployed during the Falklands War. Construction of all of the City Class Type 26 frigates is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s, with HMS Glasgow, the first in class, entering service by the end of 2028.