UK launches Submarine Delivery Agency

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has launched the Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA), strengthening arrangements to support the UK’s submarine capability.

The SDA will procure and project manage the construction of future Royal Navy submarines, and support those in-service, working with the Royal Navy and the newly established Defence Nuclear Organisation.

The agency will lead on the procurement, in-service support and decommissioning of all UK nuclear submarines, including the continuous at sea deterrent.

This will include management of the Dreadnought and Astute nuclear submarine programmes to time and budget, alongside providing day-to-day support to the in-service fleet of Trafalgar, Astute and Vanguard class submarines. As a responsible nuclear operator, the organisation will also manage the decommissioning and disposal of submarines in a safe and environmentally sound way.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: ‘Our nuclear deterrent is our ultimate defence from the most extreme threats while our attack submarines are busier than ever providing unprecedented levels of protection across the world.

‘A Royal Navy submarine is on patrol 24 hours a day, every day of the year, protecting our way of life. These advanced and complex vessels are more important than ever as the world becomes an increasingly dangerous place and establishing this new agency sends a clear signal of our commitment to continue deterring conflict and protecting the nation.’