Dreadnought-class submarine Programme overview
- Successor to the Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines.
- Forms the sea-based element of the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent (CASD).
- Fleet: Four submarines planned (Dreadnought, Valiant, Warspite, King George VI).
- Entering service: Early 2030s, to replace Vanguard subs retiring in the 2030s.
- Programme cost: Estimated £31 billion with a £10 billion contingency.
Capabilities
- Equipped with the Trident II D5 ballistic missile system (shared with US Navy).
- Dimensions: 152.9m in length, 17,200 tonnes displacement (larger than Vanguard).
- Improved stealth and acoustic quieting technologies.
- Advanced nuclear propulsion system.
- Enhanced crew accommodation and automation for a smaller crew size.
Industrial impact
- Prime contractor: BAE Systems Submarines, Barrow-in-Furness.
- Reactor design and build: Rolls-Royce, Derby.
- Supply chain: Hundreds of UK companies involved across whole of the UK.
- Employment: Supports over 30,000 jobs in the submarine enterprise (direct and indirect).
- Infrastructure: Major upgrades to Barrow shipyard, Clyde bases, and Derby facilities.
Strategic importance
- Provides the UK’s nuclear deterrent – continuous patrols at sea since 1969.
- Ensures independent national control of deterrent, though missiles maintained in cooperation with the US.
- Replaces ageing Vanguard boats to sustain deterrence through the 2050s and beyond.
- Reinforces the UK’s standing as one of only five recognised nuclear-armed states.
- Central to NATO deterrence posture and UK strategic credibility.
