The Dreadnought Alliance said the reactor would provide a more effective propulsion system than previous designs. Its modular technology is intended to support reliable operation throughout the submarines’ extended service.
Dreadnought is scheduled to enter service in the early 2030s and replace the Vanguard class. The new submarines will form the foundation of Britain’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent.
Rolls-Royce is responsible for delivering the Nuclear Steam Raising Plants and parts of the secondary propulsion systems to the Ministry of Defence. The company will also manage the equipment throughout its operational life.
Engineering work covers the reactor cores, primary-system pipework, valves, major vessels and electronic control systems. Rolls-Royce also designs and supports secondary equipment including turbo-generators and propulsors.
Frontline support for Royal Navy submarine reactor equipment is provided from the company’s Operations Centre in Derby. Rolls-Royce personnel also support submarines at the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard and naval bases at Devonport and Faslane.
Additional technical specialists are based in Glasgow, Cardiff and Caithness. Their work supports the safe and timely delivery of propulsion equipment and through-life engineering services.
Each Dreadnought submarine will displace 17,200 tonnes, measure 153.6 metres and accommodate 130 crew members. The Royal Navy lists a speed of 20 knots and an unlimited range for the nuclear-powered class. Royal Navy
The submarines will be capable of launching Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, continuing the strategic role currently performed by the Vanguard class. Each boat will have 12 missile tubes and four 533 mm torpedo tubes for Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes. Royal Navy
Rolls-Royce is continuing engineering and manufacturing work on the PWR3 plants while construction of the submarines advances. The programme remains a central element of the company’s nuclear-submarine business and the UK’s future deterrent capability.
