The UK government has committed £8.4 billion to the next phase of the Dreadnought-class nuclear submarine programme, reinforcing national defense and boosting employment.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Barrow-in-Furness, where the submarines are built, to highlight the project's economic impact.
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The programme currently supports around 47,000 jobs across the UK, with projections of 65,000 by 2030 and 22,000 apprenticeships by 2035.
“Keeping this country safe is the first responsibility of any government,” Burnham said.
He emphasized that the submarines will protect Britain for decades and that the jobs will transform communities.
Investment Details
The contract includes £5.9 billion for BAE Systems to continue construction at its Barrow shipyard, and £2.5 billion for the wider UK supply chain.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting called the submarines essential for deterrence in a dangerous world.
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Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems Chief Executive, noted the programme's strategic importance and reliance on the national industrial base.
The Dreadnought class will replace the Vanguard-class vessels, which have been in service since 1992.
The overall project is valued at £31 billion, including a £10 billion contingency fund.
The Defence Nuclear Enterprise, a partnership of government and industry, manages the UK's nuclear deterrent across multiple sites.
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Burnham reaffirmed the government's commitment to NATO defence spending targets, stating the need to address challenging issues.
