UK secures £4 Billion contracts for World's most advanced submarines.

In a groundbreaking development, the UK has just sealed the deal on £4 billion worth of contracts, propelling the nation to the forefront of submarine design and manufacture. The awarding of the Detailed Design and Long Leads (D2L2) Phase contracts to key players such as BAE Systems (BAES), Rolls-Royce, and Babcock marks a significant leap forward for the trilateral AUKUS program.

The focal point of these contracts is the creation of the SSN-AUKUS, the next generation of nuclear-powered attack submarines. The £4 billion investment will fuel the program's progression through the design, prototyping, and acquisition of crucial long lead components for the initial UK submarines. This financial injection ensures the kickstart of construction in the coming years, safeguarding the stability and resilience of the domestic supply chain.

Leveraging over 60 years of British expertise in nuclear-powered submarine design, the D2L2 contracts are not just about technological advancement; they're about job creation. Thousands of highly skilled jobs in the UK will be supported, aligning seamlessly with the Prime Minister's economic growth agenda.

The developments aren't limited to the drawing board; infrastructure enhancements are on the horizon. The submarine shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness and the nuclear reactor manufacturing site in Raynesway, Derby, will undergo expansion and development to meet the demands of the future submarine build program.

The ambitious goal is to see the first UK submarines deployed in the late 2030s, replacing the existing Astute-Class vessels. Simultaneously, Australia is gearing up for its own submarine journey, with the first vessels expected in the early 2040s. These submarines will be unparalleled in size, technology, and firepower, representing the pinnacle of Royal Navy capabilities. Their construction will primarily take place in Barrow-in-Furness, while Australia embarks on a decade-long endeavour to strengthen its submarine industrial base. Notably, Rolls-Royce will be the key supplier of nuclear reactors for all submarines in both the UK and Australia.

This £4 billion infusion not only cements the UK's position as a global leader in submarine technology but also underscores the collaborative efforts of the AUKUS program in advancing naval capabilities on an international scale. As the wheels of progress turn, the late 2030s promise to unveil a new era of maritime supremacy for the UK, with cutting-edge submarines poised to redefine the standards of naval excellence.

Reference: www.gov.uk “£4 Billion UK contracts progresses AUKUS submarine design” Press Release from Ministry of Defence

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/4-billion-uk-contracts-progresses-aukus-submarine-design