UK Defence Journal

By Ton Dunlop

18 March 2025

Source: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-to-increase-nuclear-submarine-docking-capability/

The UK government has confirmed that a strategy is in place to upgrade infrastructure to accommodate the Royal Navy’s new Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines, but details remain classified for security reasons.

In response to multiple parliamentary questions from Graeme Downie MP, Defence Minister Maria Eagle stated that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is upgrading existing naval bases and dockyards to support the repairs and maintenance of the four planned Dreadnought-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). However, further details cannot be disclosed due to operational security concerns.

Eagle stated:

“For operational security reasons, further details cannot be released as to do so could be used to undermine the security and capability of our Armed Forces.”

Despite concerns over rising defence costs, the government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the four Dreadnought-class submarines within the original £41 billion budget, which includes a £10 billion contingency fund. The first of class, HMS Dreadnought, remains scheduled to enter service in the early 2030s.

Royal Navy on path to resolve submarine maintenance capacity

The Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet will undergo faster and more efficient maintenance following the reopening of 9 Dock at Devonport, the largest dry dock in Western Europe.

The Dreadnought-class submarines will replace the ageing Vanguard-class SSBNs, ensuring the continuity of the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrence (CASD) well into the 2060s.

While the government has acknowledged ongoing upgrades to UK dockyards, it has not specified how many docks will be required by 2035 or which bases will host Dreadnought-class maintenance operations. However, it is widely expected that HMNB Clyde (Faslane) and Devonport will play key roles in maintaining the next-generation deterrent submarines.