New British nuclear missile submarine on track for 2030s

The UK’s Dreadnought-class submarine programme remains on track, with the Ministry of Defence confirming that the manufacture of four new ballistic missile submarines is progressing within the original cost estimate of £41 billion.

Responding to a parliamentary question from Ben Obese-Jecty MP (Conservative, Huntingdon) on the current status of the programme, Defence Minister Maria Eagle stated:

“The programme remains on track to manufacture four Dreadnought Class submarines within the original cost estimate of £41 billion, consisting of £31 billion and a contingency of £10 billion.”

The first of the new submarines, HMS Dreadnought, is scheduled to enter service in the early 2030s, replacing the current Vanguard-class submarines as part of the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent.

The Dreadnought programme represents one of the largest defence projects in British history, ensuring the Royal Navy maintains its nuclear deterrent capability for decades to come.

The Dreadnought-class submarines are designed for an extended service life of 35 to 40 years, representing an increase of approximately 50% over the Vanguard-class they replace. Each submarine will operate with a crew of 130, including three chefs and a doctor, and will feature separate female quarters, a gym, a classroom, and a lighting system that simulates the time of day to support crew wellbeing during long deployments.

They will be powered by Rolls-Royce’s PWR3 (Pressurised Water Reactor 3), a more advanced and efficient nuclear reactor than the PWR2 used on previous classes. The PWR3 was selected over its predecessors due to its simpler operation, extended lifespan, and reduced maintenance costs, with 30% fewer components, contributing to improved reliability and cost-effectiveness.

To enhance stealth and manoeuvrability, the Dreadnought-class will introduce X-rudders—a first for British submarines—which will help reduce noise, particularly at high speeds, in conjunction with a pumpjet propulsion system. Unlike the Vanguard-class, movement control will employ a fly-by-wire system using BAE Systems’ Active Vehicle Control Management (AVCM), improving handling and automation. The submarines will also be equipped with Thales’ Sonar 2076, one of the world’s most advanced sonar systems.

The missile compartments will feature four missile tubes each (quad packs), for a total of twelve missile tubes, shared with the American Columbia-class submarines as part of the Common Missile Compartment (CMC) scheme. Designed with five deck levels, the Dreadnought-class will provide a more modern, efficient, and survivable platform for the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent well into the latter half of the 21st century.