The Future SSN (R) Fleet

The UK Government is committed to funding a next generation of nuclear submarines (SSNs) to guarantee UK security well into the second half of the 21st century.

In summer 2021 BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce were given £170m to start thinking about the design and capabilities of a new class of submarine which will eventually take over from the Astute class. Over the next three years until 2024, some 350 designers, engineers and shipwrights – 250 in the NorthWest and 100 in the Midlands – will carry out design and concept work, work to help Whitehall determine how it replaces Astutes before they begin to reach the end of their active lives.

The BAE SYSTEMS team will focus on the design and construction of the new class – provisionally known as the SSNR (Submersible Ship Nuclear Replacement) programme – while Rolls-Royce in Derby will concentrate on the development/production of the boats’ nuclear reactors. Announcing the 2021 contract Defence Secretary Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP said, “Marking the start of a new journey for the Royal Navy’s submarines, British designers and engineers will lead the way in developing submarines for our Royal Navy. This multi-million pound investment ensures that this vital capability will be ready to replace our Astute Class submarines as they come out of service, whilst supporting high-skilled jobs across the Midlands and North West of England.”

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace On SSN (R). 17 September 2021, £170-million investment for the next generation of Royal Navy submarines - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)