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British aerospace, defence, and nuclear engineering services company Babcock has announced work on the United Kingdom’s new Dreadnought Class submarines under two new contracts worth around AU$230 million.
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The company will undertake a 4 1/2-year, $126.5 million contract with the UK Ministry of Defence to provide input into the development of the support solution for the UK’s new Dreadnought Class submarines, as well as a $105 million contract by BAE Systems for weapon handling and launch system and submerged signal ejector equipment for boats two to four of the Dreadnought Class.
The new Dreadnought Class is expected to replace the United Kingdom’s current Vanguard Class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines in the early 2030s as a Continuous At Sea Deterrent vessel.
Babcock also recently signed a five-year contract to support detailed design for the new SSN AUKUS submarines, which are expected to replace the current Astute Class nuclear-powered hunter killer submarine fleet in the late 2030s.
Babcock chief executive officer David Lockwood said the contract awards reflect decades-long experience of sustaining the UK’s submarine fleet, providing considerable experience, unique knowledge and insights to aid Dreadnought’s transition into service.
“Contributing our extensive expertise on the complex support submarines require is a hugely important aspect to the design of this new platform,” he said.
“By participating early in the program, we will help to maximise the UK’s future defence capabilities.”
The contracts reinforce the importance of Babcock’s expertise and experience in supporting the UK’s current and future submarine fleet to enable improved in-service availability, he said.
“It is undeniable the pivotal role that British industry plays in the defence of our nation and our allies, and I’m committed to supporting UK companies who are continuing to bolster our security whilst driving prosperity across our economy,” according to UK Minister for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge.
“The Dreadnought Class will be central to keeping our country safe and will further enhance our world-renowned submarine fleet.”
Earlier this year in February, construction was announced on the third Dreadnought Class submarine, Warspite, by BAE Systems for the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy.
BAE announced the start of construction on the second-to-last Dreadnought Class ballistic missile submarine at its shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, on 9 February.
The 153.6-metre-long boat is expected to enter service in the early 2030s and carry nuclear deterrent weaponry such as Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes and Lockheed Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
All vessels, including the fourth boat, King George VI, are expected to enter service in the 2030s for the UK’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent, which has been on uninterrupted patrol each day since 1969.
