Andy Burnham is set to reveal an £8.4 billion fund for nuclear submarines to assist the new HMS Dreadnought in its sea trials and prepare it for operational deployment by the 2030s. These nuclear-armed submarines will replace the Vanguard Class and have the capability to launch Trident 2 D5 ballistic missiles. They will be powered by a Rolls-Royce nuclear propulsion system, providing them with extensive operational range. The HMS Dreadnought is the first of four new nuclear submarines.
While a portion of the funding will support the progression of the first submarine towards operational readiness, some of it will also be allocated to advance the HMS Valiant, the second submarine, to its sea trials phase. Furthermore, manufacturers will receive assistance to facilitate the construction phases of the third and fourth submarines.
In a statement, Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the importance of national security and highlighted the impact of investing in domestic production. The submarines, manufactured in Barrow, will ensure the country’s defense for many years to come and create significant employment opportunities and apprenticeships. Burnham stressed the government’s commitment to supporting British workers, firms, and skills through this investment, aiming to revitalize industrial sectors across the nation.
The Defence Nuclear Enterprise in the UK is estimated to sustain approximately 47,000 jobs, with key locations including Aldermaston, Burghfield, Devonport naval base, and Barrow. A significant portion of the £8.4 billion investment for the Dreadnought Class submarine program will be allocated to BAE Systems, with the remainder supporting the broader supply chain. Burnham is facing inquiries regarding defense expenditure and how he plans to achieve the target of 3.5% of GDP for defense spending by 2035.
The Defence Investment Plan outlines commitments to fund the fitting of four Dreadnought submarines in Barrow, raising total defense investment over the next four years to £298 billion. By the end of the decade, defense spending is projected to be 2.7% of GDP. Burnham is expected to highlight Barrow’s transformation as a model of successful taxpayer investment in major government projects that benefit regions nationwide. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the vital role of nuclear-armed submarines in safeguarding the UK and praised the investment for sustaining local employment and securing the nation’s future security.
Shadow defense secretary James Cartlidge commended progress on the Dreadnought program but expressed concerns over the lack of clarity regarding the strategic defense review and the commitment to reaching a 3% defense spending threshold. Despite these issues, there is bipartisan support for maintaining the nuclear deterrent and backing the workforce involved in submarine construction. The government is urged to ensure proper funding to meet defense challenges and commitments in the years ahead.