Why Is the UK Building the Most Powerful Submarines in Its History?

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(Commonwealth_Europe) The United Kingdom is set to embark on a significant expansion of its naval capabilities, with the government announcing plans to build up to 12 new conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines. These submarines are intended to replace the current seven-strong Astute-class fleet, beginning in the late 2030s. The announcement forms part of a broader strategic defense review that is expected to reposition the UK’s armed forces toward a state of “warfighting readiness” in response to evolving global threats.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to confirm a £15 billion investment into the UK’s nuclear warhead program. This funding will support the ongoing modernization of the warheads used in the country’s Trident missile system, a core component of the UK’s continuous-at-sea nuclear deterrent. The government will also reaffirm its commitment to delivering the Dreadnought class of nuclear-armed submarines, which will succeed the Vanguard fleet in the early 2030s.

The forthcoming review, led by former Labour Defense Secretary Lord Robertson and commissioned shortly after the Labour government was formed in July 2024, will make 62 recommendations. The government is anticipated to accept all of them. In an interview ahead of the report’s publication, the Prime Minister stressed the growing threat posed by Russia, stating that preparedness for conflict remains the best form of deterrence.

As part of its broader defense strategy, the government has committed to raising defense spending from 2.3% to 2.5% of national income by 2027. Although welcomed across the political spectrum, debate continues over when the UK should aim to reach the 3% threshold. The government maintains that achieving this higher benchmark is an ambition for 2034, beyond the current parliamentary term. Critics, including the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats, have argued for a more accelerated timeline, with calls for clear financial commitments to underpin these ambitions. Sir Keir has indicated he would only set a firm date when he is confident it can be financially supported, describing any premature pledge as “performative.”

The review will also include significant new investments in defense infrastructure and capability. A £1.5 billion commitment will support the construction of six new factories to ensure a sustained munitions production capacity. Additionally, plans are in place to manufacture up to 7,000 long-range weapons, such as missiles and drones, domestically for use by British forces. Another £1.5 billion will be allocated to repair and upgrade military housing by 2029, while £1 billion will be invested in technology aimed at accelerating the delivery of battlefield targeting information.

In the domain of cyber operations, the government will establish a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command to enhance both defensive and offensive capabilities in the digital space. This reflects a broader recognition of the importance of information warfare and the evolving nature of modern conflict.

While Defense Secretary John Healey has ruled out an increase in the size of the army before the next general election, he has committed to reversing recent declines in troop numbers. He aims to restore full-time Army strength to 73,000 personnel during the next parliamentary term.

The future SSN-AUKUS submarines, developed in partnership with the Australian Navy under a trilateral defense agreement with the United States announced in 2021, will represent the next generation of British attack submarines. In addition to their traditional roles in intelligence gathering and task group protection, these submarines will provide essential support to the Dreadnought fleet and uphold the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent.

With the Defence Nuclear Enterprise accounting for 20% of the Ministry of Defence budget, these investments mark a substantial reaffirmation of the UK’s long-term security priorities and its commitment to NATO. As the international security environment grows increasingly complex, the review underscores a renewed focus on readiness, resilience, and sustained investment in national defense.

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