French nuclear attack submarine arrives in Scotland

A French Navy Suffren-class nuclear-powered attack submarine has arrived at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland.

Images shared by photographers on the Clyde show the submarine entering Faslane under escort, with a piper visible onboard as the boat arrived.

The Suffren class represents the backbone of France’s next-generation attack submarine force, replacing the Rubis-class boats that have been in service since the 1980s. The submarines are nuclear-powered but conventionally armed, designed for a wide range of missions including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, special forces deployment, land attack and escort of France’s ballistic missile submarines.

At around 5,300 tonnes submerged, the Suffren class is significantly larger and more capable than its predecessor. The boats feature advanced sonar systems, improved acoustic discretion and the ability to launch cruise missiles. They are also designed to operate alongside allied naval forces in high-intensity environments.

While official details of the Faslane visit have not been released, such port calls are not unusual and typically support a mix of operational, logistical objectives. Faslane regularly hosts allied submarines, particularly from NATO partners.

UK–France naval cooperation is long-standing and has deepened in recent years through bilateral agreements and joint operations. Both navies operate nuclear-powered attack submarines and share common interests in undersea warfare, maritime security and deterrence. Visits such as this one provide opportunities for professional exchange, technical engagement and coordination between crews and shore staff.

The presence of a French attack submarine at Faslane, though routine, also comes against the backdrop of increased allied focus on undersea security in the North Atlantic and wider European waters. Submarine forces play a central role in deterrence, intelligence and the protection of critical maritime infrastructure.