UK Defence Journal

By George Allison

14 February 2025

Source: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-to-increase-production-of-nuclear-submarine-reactors/

The Ministry of Defence is working closely with Rolls-Royce Submarines (RRS) to boost delivery confidence for the Core Production Capability programme.

This aims to increase production rates and strengthen manufacturing resilience, thereby ensuring that the UK’s nuclear submarine fleet remains on track to meet operational demands.

Minister for Defence, Maria Eagle, explained, “The Department is working closely with Rolls-Royce Submarines (RRS) to improve delivery confidence for the Core Production Capability programme. 

This has included increasing production rates and improving manufacturing resilience.”

Her comments underscore the commitment to enhancing the efficiency of the UK’s submarine shipbuilding efforts.

The Infrastructure and Projects Authority has confirmed that these ongoing actions are appropriate, as outlined in its Annual Report on Major Projects 2023-24. The progress made since 31 March 2024 reflects the government’s dedication to a robust and reliable nuclear submarine industrial base.

According to the report, the programme is fundamental to providing the Royal Navy with the capability to propel the Dreadnought-class submarines and a “modern, safe, and sovereign capability to manufacture further cores” for a future fleet of attack submarines.

This capability is also essential for fulfilling the UK’s commitments under the AUKUS defence partnership.