By the 2030s, London wants to build domestically produced warheads and next-generation submarines.
Britain plans to build completely new warheads for the Trident ballistic missiles, to be carried by the upcoming Dreadnought-class atomic submarines, the defense ministry in London has revealed. The cost of domestic production and development will be an additional 9 billion over the next five years.
The defense ministry's report, presented to the Parliament on Tuesday and made public on Wednesday, describes nuclear modernization as a one-in-two-generations effort that will support the construction of industrial infrastructure and the modernization of manufacturing and maintenance capabilities.
Since 1998, the British nuclear arsenal has been completely submarine-based, and it is currently dominated by four Vanguard-class missile boats with Trident II missiles. In 2016, the parliament approved the development and construction of the Dreadnought-class in 2016 and the first of the class remains on track to enter service in the early 2030s, according to the report.
Both the new boats and the new warheads for the Titans are being designed and constructed in the UK and represent some of the most advanced systems ever built, the MoD report says, and their development is directly supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the country and investing billions of pounds into the UK economy. The U.S. government, however, plans to spend an additional 3 billion dollars on the nuclear program over the next two years, and another 6 billion over the next three years. Improvements to shipyards at Devonport and Faslane will also be made.
Other significant earmarks in the defense budget are 2.5 billion over the next 10 years to replenish the depleted stockpiles of ammunition and 400 million to repair crumbling barracks and other accommodations.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who has announced his resignation over the weekend, remains in plans to bolster the Royal Navy while reducing the number of tanks and troops in the ground forces to the smallest size since the Napoleonic wars. Unnamed sources within the military have objected to the new blueprint, which prioritizes the service formerly led by Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, who took over the general staff in 2021.
London has already chosen the names of the new submarines. Dreadnought's sister boats will be called Valiant, Warspite and King George VI. While the Dreadnought has a history in the Royal Navy dating back to the 1500s, the most famous battleship that was built in the early 20th century based completely on big guns was known as the Dreadnought. Her victory in 1906 led to a naval arms race between Germany and France. HMS Dreadnought missed all the major battles of World War One, but became the only battleship to ever sink a submarine, by ramming a German U-boat in March 1915.
19 Comments
Eric Cartman
The money spent on developing and producing new warheads and submarines could be better allocated to other pressing needs, such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure.
Stan Marsh
The production and use of nuclear weapons have significant environmental implications, including the potential for radioactive contamination and long-term damage to ecosystems.
Eric Cartman
Pursuing nuclear modernization sends a message to the international community that the UK is prioritizing military capabilities and potentially escalating tensions with other nations.
Stan Marsh
Upgrading the UK's nuclear arsenal ensures that it remains at the forefront of defense capabilities, capable of defending its interests and fulfilling its obligations to its NATO allies.
Katchuka
Having domestically produced warheads and submarines gives the UK the flexibility to adapt and respond to evolving security challenges without relying on external suppliers.
Noir Black
The development of next-generation submarines and advanced warheads demonstrates the UK's technological prowess and capabilities, positioning it as a leader in defense innovation.
Madagascar
Developing and maintaining nuclear weapons poses inherent safety risks that could potentially have catastrophic consequences if accidents occur.
Muchacho
Spending an additional £9 billion on domestically produced warheads and submarines is a significant financial burden on the UK, especially considering the economic challenges the country currently faces.
Coccinella
The decision to name the submarines after historically significant vessels in the Royal Navy pays tribute to the country's naval heritage and reinforces national pride and identity.
Mariposa
The decision to build domestically produced warheads and next-generation submarines may lack adequate scrutiny and transparency, which raises concerns about accountability and oversight.
Muchacha
Investing in new warheads and submarines could contribute to a renewed arms race, as other countries may feel compelled to respond by bolstering their own nuclear arsenal.
Bella Ciao
Building domestically produced warheads and submarines enhances the UK's national security by ensuring a reliable and independent nuclear deterrent.
Coccinella
The possession of a credible nuclear deterrent plays a crucial role in deterring potential adversaries and maintaining stability in international relations.
Eugene Alta
The UK's decision to build new warheads could undermine global efforts towards nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, as it encourages the continued reliance on and modernization of nuclear weapons.
Katchuka
Relying on domestically produced warheads and submarines strengthens the UK's sovereignty and reduces reliance on other countries for its defense capabilities.
ZmeeLove
A strong nuclear program enhances the UK's standing on the global stage, giving it greater influence in diplomatic negotiations and strategic alliances.
Habibi
Impressive to see the accurate data tracking by the regional Meteorological Centre in Nagpur. Information like this is crucial for disaster management.
Katchuka
The resources dedicated to building new warheads and submarines could be better utilized for investments in sustainable energy, climate change mitigation, or other initiatives that address pressing global challenges.
Eugene Alta
Some argue that investing in weapons of mass destruction is inherently unethical, as it prioritizes military capabilities over the well-being of people and the pursuit of peace.