Nuclear submarine programme takes step forward with hull unit move
The first Dreadnought pressure hull unit in transit. (Photo: BAE Systems)
The Dreadnought-class SSBNs will be the largest submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. Each boat will be capable of housing eight to 12 Trident II D5 missiles.
The first pressure hull unit for the first Dreadnought-class SSBN has been transported to Devonshire Dock Hall in Barrow, northern England, for outfitting.
The transportation of the hull unit marks a significant step in the programme that will see four nuclear submarines produced for the UK RN.
The unit was moved on 30 November.
Related Articles
Euronaval 2022: BAE Systems details Herne XLAUV concept
Why the UK’s submarine nuclear deterrent line is susceptible to risk
Elbit ceases UK Dreadnought sub training work; Project Selborne role ‘under negotiation’
While wrapped in black sheeting, an image released by the submarine’s builder BAE Systems illustrates the scale of the future submarine.
The programme is on track for the first of class, HMS Dreadnought, to enter into service in the early 2030s.
The whole-life cost of the new submarines will be around £31 billion across the four vessels’ 35-year service life.
Each boat will displace 17,200t and measure 153.6m in length.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
-
![All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids]()
All eyes on Royal Navy’s Type 93 market engagement as industry prepares bids
Responses are due by 29 October as the Royal Navy tests the market, with BAE Systems’ Herne and MSubs’ Excalibur setting up a contest where payloads may decide the winner.
-
![US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests]()
US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
