A new extension to the UK’s Trident Training Facility has opened at HM Naval Base Clyde, supporting the next generation of nuclear deterrent submarines, according to the Royal Navy.
The facility will be used to train submariners for the incoming Dreadnought-class boats, which are set to replace the current Vanguard-class fleet from the early 2030s, according to the Royal Navy.
Opened on 24 March, the site will provide shore-based training using systems designed to replicate those onboard the future submarines, particularly for weapons engineers and specialist crew roles.
Vice Admiral Johnny Wolfe, US Director of Strategic Programs, said: “The Polaris Sales Agreement is foundational to the US-UK sea-based strategic deterrence relationship, and crucial to the collective security of our NATO allies.”
Rear Admiral Robbie Lauchlan, the UK’s Chief Strategic Systems Executive, described the opening as “a key milestone on the way towards the next generation of the UK’s Nuclear Deterrent.”
The facility is expected to begin training its first intake later this year and completed testing ten weeks ahead of schedule.
The development comes as part of wider investment at HMNB Clyde, including a £270.7 million infrastructure package aimed at preparing the base for Dreadnought submarines and future attack boat programmes.
The UK’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent, maintained since 1969, will transition to the new class over the coming decade, with each Dreadnought submarine expected to carry a crew of around 130 personnel.
Before getting far too excited, just remember the current incumbent Whitehouse is unlikely to be there is about 27 months.
A long time, but withdrawing from NATO and any significant partnerships would take longer. I hope.
Ultimately it’s up to the Supreme Court however according to John Bolton who is very anti trump the US president can unilaterally withdraw from any international treaty without any congressional approval.
He can certainly with draw the US for NATO military command straight away much the same as Charles De Gaul did.
The US withdrawing from the command structure but staying in the political structure may be the best outcome.
However the US withdrawal from NATO should not have any impact in the UKUSA agreement (five eyes) or the The Polaris Sales Agreement (Trident)
Does Trump even know these treaties exist? Both treaties give the US military authority to act with the UK with it h seeking any presidential approval.