Babcock opens new submarine support hub in Bristol, creating over 100 jobs

The hub will enhance existing support services for the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet, adding to the 400 personnel already employed in the facility. The newly created roles span engineering, project management, business analysis, and data analytics, contributing to the growing defence infrastructure in the South West.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, the Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, who highlighted the government’s commitment to defence as a driver of economic growth. The event showcased the state-of-the-art facility, which fosters innovation through a data-led, collaborative environment.

Babcock’s CEO, David Lockwood, described the hub as a benchmark for UK defence collaboration. He emphasised that the infrastructure not only supports critical national security operations but also provides long-term career opportunities for skilled professionals in the industry.

The facility is expected to play a crucial role in supporting submarine operations at key locations such as Devonport Royal Dockyard, Rosyth, and His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde. The hub’s capabilities will enable more effective planning and integration, ensuring the continued readiness of the Royal Navy’s nuclear deterrent.

Sir Chris Gardner, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency, praised the hub as a significant investment in the UK’s defence nuclear enterprise. He highlighted the potential for the facility to provide hands-on training opportunities for engineering students, fostering the next generation of talent in the sector.

The launch of SASH marks a strategic step forward in Britain’s defence infrastructure, reinforcing the country’s ability to maintain and develop its world-leading submarine capabilities. By uniting government and industry expertise under one roof, Babcock’s new hub aims to drive efficiency and innovation in the maintenance of the UK’s most complex defence assets.