Why the UK's submarine nuclear deterrent line is susceptible to risk
A Vanguard Class submarine, HMS Vigilant is shown alongside No 10 berth at HM Naval Base Clyde. (Photo: UK MoD/Crown Copyright)
Lengthy delays to the refit of HMS Vanguard and a fire on board HMS Victorious have exposed vulnerabilities in the UK's continuous at-sea deterrent (CASD).
Earlier this month, UK national newspaper the Daily Telegraph reported that a fire had broken out on the Vanguard-class submarine HMS Victorious while operating in the North Atlantic.
The paper reported that a fault in an electrical module was to blame and that the submarine had surfaced as a precaution.
While the fire was extinguished and the boat safely transited back to port, the incident exposed the fragility of the UK's nuclear deterrent. This issue has been compounded by the extensive time another vessel, HMS Vanguard, has spent in refit.
'With HMS Vanguard's refit several years behind schedule,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![French Navy frigates to align with Hellenic Navy after Aster missile enhancement]()
French Navy frigates to align with Hellenic Navy after Aster missile enhancement
The FDI frigates will have an enhanced warfare capability that matches the configuration of ships ordered by Greece.
-
![US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers]()
US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers
Contracts for new light and medium cutters are expected to be awarded in mid-2026.
-
![Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening]()
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
