In a significant milestone for the UK military, BAE Systems has officially laid the keel for the Royal Navy’s first Dreadnought-class nuclear submarine at its facilities in Barrow-in-Furness, England. This ceremony marks a pivotal moment in the long-awaited construction of the vessel, occurring nearly a decade after the initial steel was cut. The prolonged timeline has been influenced by adjustments to the scheduling at the shipyard, as well as ongoing developments related to nuclear reactor facilities and other next-generation submarine projects.
The HMS Dreadnought and its sister submarines are slated to replace the aging Vanguard-class fleet, which has been serving the Royal Navy since the 1980s. The commissioning of the Dreadnought-class submarines is anticipated in the 2030s, aligning with the UK’s defense strategy for its maritime capabilities.
Royal Navy First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key emphasized the importance of this event, describing the keel laying as the “birth” of the new vessel. “I congratulate all those involved across the Alliance for reaching this important milestone in the life of HMS Dreadnought and look forward to bringing this exciting and highly capable submarine into service,” he stated during the ceremony. He also acknowledged the ongoing reliability of the Vanguard-class submarines while expressing optimism about the advanced technologies of the incoming Dreadnought-class.
The ceremonial event was attended by prominent figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Secretary of State for Defence John Healey, who recognized the strategic significance of the UK’s new Dreadnought submarines. These vessels are touted as the most powerful and technologically sophisticated submarines ever to be designed for the Royal Navy.
The Dreadnought-class submarines represent the largest British submarines to date, measuring an impressive 154 meters (505 feet) in length and accommodating a crew of up to 130 personnel. They will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a Rolls-Royce Pressurised Water Reactor 3, dual geared steam turbines, and a propeller shaft. The submarines are designed to reach surface speeds of 20 knots (37 kilometers or 23 miles per hour) and can move underwater at 28 knots (52 kilometers or 32 miles per hour), with their operational range determined only by the crew’s provisions and mechanical supplies.
When fully operational, the Dreadnought-class submarines will be armed with Spearhead 533-millimeter heavy torpedoes and Lockheed Martin UGM-133A Trident II ballistic missiles, further enhancing the Royal Navy’s deterrent capabilities in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.
