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In Greece, supported by the UK Government, Babcock has been fine-tuning a programme to meet the requirements of the Hellenic Navy’s frigate modernisation programme which will include a Hydra Class upgrade, an interim frigate capability and four Babcock Arrowhead 140 frigates.
Babcock’s comprehensive package of support and industrial strategy would see it support the modernisation of Greek shipyard facilities, underpinned by partnering proposals with Greek industry to develop local workforces and transfer knowledge and technology within the wider domestic shipbuilding supply chain – all undertaken as part of the company’s commitment to Greece.
Primed for export, the Arrowhead 140 is a proven, intelligent and adaptable frigate based upon an in-service hull-form that has been tried and tested in real-world operational environments.
It is an efficient and highly-effective platform with the scope to adapt its capabilities to specific operational and lay-out requirements. It’s a cost-effective, high-value vessel designed for in-country build; perfect for a modern, global Hellenic Navy.
The platform’s heritage and clever design enhancements enable improved warship capability whilst retaining its proven strengths. International customers will benefit from the design being chosen for the next generation of UK Royal Navy Type 31 frigates through non-recurring expenditure, accurate known costs for design and build and significant economies of scale.
“The buildability of the ships enables the effective transfer of a UK design to Greece for efficient manufacture and in-country assembly, while de-risking the build programme.”
“The frigate’s modular build credentials mean that it is primed for pre-outfitting with open compartments allowing for rapid assembly, enabling build time and cost reduction efficiencies and an accelerated entry into service.”
“We will work with Greek industry to utilise domestic supply chains, to modernise and equip facilities, upskill and grow local workforces and transfer knowledge and technology to support an in-country build that will stimulate economic growth and prosperity.”
Will Erith, Chief Executive Marine, Babcock
Propulsion that’s powered to perform.
The platform has the capability to accommodate a variety of propulsion solutions. Arrowhead 140’s size allows sufficient fuel for long-range independent global operations. With sustainability in mind, the space available and the systems designed into the platform are configured for compliance with IMO Tier III regulations for ECAs.
Armaments to equip you to engage
The platform can be fitted with an extensive range of high-end capabilities. The hosting of offensive and defensive systems for enhanced air defence, surface and sub-surface warfare, maritime interdiction, self-protection and engagement of long range land targets provides for significant strategic, political and operational choice and the confidence in operational performance. Arrowhead 140 can also host an array of unmanned vehicles, weaponry, communication and electronic warfare capabilities to defend against a wide spectrum of operational threats.
Mission systems that are flexible and established
The Arrowhead 140 design for the UK requirement incorporates Thales’ TACTICOS™ Combat Management System utilising open architecture networks and computing environments to provide a scalable and upgradeable mission / combat management capability suitable for a wide range of mission profiles and scenarios. However with generous provisioning of combat system compartments and cabling routes throughout the ship, the platform’s design flexibility allows for a choice of command systems and operational capabilities.
Aviation capability choices
The Arrowhead 140 flight deck is designed for a wide range of naval aircraft and air systems, with a hangar that can accommodate an organic medium naval helicopter such as a MH-60 Seahawk combined with unmanned air systems. Dedicated aviation magazine facilities to store and prepare air-launched weapons including ASW torpedoes and Anti-Surface missiles are provided. The large flight deck provides the flexibility to launch and recover non-organic aircraft up to 15t in weight.
Accommodation that sustains a mission ready crew
Arrowhead 140 can operate with a Ship’s Company of less than 100 personnel. With dedicated accommodation for 180+ personnel and additional temporary accommodation, the platform can carry a significant number of Embarked Military Force, including Special Forces, littoral manoeuvre troops or additional command and control personnel.
Expert Support through life
Babcock’s through-life support offering assures ship availability, reliability and cost-effective readiness. This includes the optimal integration of people, processes and technology with novel mobile, remote and connected technology ensuring systems can provide the maintainer with an in-depth understanding of the performance, maintenance and material condition of their assets.
