BAE Systems lays keel for HMS Dreadnought, marking key milestone in cuclear submarine programme

The ceremonial event was attended by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Defence Secretary John Healey, highlighting the national significance of the project. The Dreadnought Class submarines, the most advanced ever built for the Royal Navy, will begin entering service in the early 2030s, ensuring uninterrupted nuclear deterrence.

BAE Systems, in partnership with Rolls-Royce and the Ministry of Defence’s Submarine Delivery Agency, is leading the development of the Dreadnought Class. Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Submarines business, Steve Timms, described the keel laying as a proud moment, demonstrating progress in one of the world’s most complex engineering projects.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the British defence industry, emphasising the role of investment in national and economic security. He praised the Barrow workforce for their decades-long contribution to the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pledged continued support for innovation in submarine technology.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key acknowledged the Royal Navy’s long-standing role in delivering CASD since 1969. He highlighted the Dreadnought Class’s advanced capabilities and expressed confidence in the project’s success, congratulating all involved in reaching this critical stage.

The Dreadnought submarines will be the largest in Royal Navy history, measuring 153.6 metres in length—equivalent to three Olympic swimming pools. Incorporating cutting-edge technology, they represent a significant evolution in submarine design, adapting to changing threats and modern defence requirements.

The programme is expected to support around 30,000 jobs across the UK, with the Barrow shipyard workforce growing to 14,700 since 2023. BAE Systems has also invested over £1 billion in modernising the shipyard to boost efficiency and production capacity, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the UK’s submarine-building capability.

With an estimated £7.5 billion to be spent with 1,500 suppliers across the UK, the economic impact of the Dreadnought programme will extend beyond defence.

Source: BAE Systems (press release).