UK and Australia Team Up for Next-Gen Nuclear Subs
The UK and Australia will build the first generation of AUKUS nuclear submarines, using Britain’s world-leading submarine design. The announcement came today from the Prime Minister, alongside leaders from Australia and the US.
A Historic Trilateral Defence Deal
Back in September 2021, the UK, Australia, and the US launched the AUKUS partnership—an unprecedented move aiming to arm Australia with conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs). After 18 months of planning, the trio settled on a cutting-edge design based on the UK’s expertise combined with advanced US tech.
These new ‘SSN-AUKUS’ subs will be built on both sides of the globe. The UK’s construction will focus mainly in Barrow-in-Furness, while Australia will develop its submarine industry in South Australia. Some components will come from the UK, boosting jobs and industry in both nations.
Massive Jobs Boost and Cutting-Edge Firepower
- The UK’s new subs will debut in the late 2030s, replacing the current Astute-Class vessels.
- Australia’s versions will roll out in the early 2040s.
- The SSN-AUKUS subs will be the Royal Navy’s biggest, most advanced, and deadliest attack submarines, packing world-class sensors and weaponry.
- Thousands of UK jobs will be created, with a concentration in Barrow-in-Furness and additional roles in Derby and beyond.
The project leans on the UK’s 60+ years of nuclear sub-building know-how and will cement the country’s status as a global defence powerhouse.
Strategic Defence for the Indo-Pacific and Beyond
The interoperable design means the Royal Navy, US Navy, and Royal Australian Navy can work seamlessly together, crucial for countering threats and deterring aggression, especially in the geopolitically tense Indo-Pacific.
Today’s announcement also updates the UK’s Integrated Review, cementing the Indo-Pacific ‘tilt’ as a permanent fixture of British foreign policy.
The subs will also bolster NATO efforts, ensuring the UK maintains a strong hand in defending Euro-Atlantic security.
Leaders Speak Out
Prime Minister: “The AUKUS partnership and these submarines built in British shipyards show our steadfast commitment to global security. This alliance is built on shared values and a firm focus on stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. I’m proud our British design expertise will protect our people and allies for generations.”
Defence Secretary: “This marks a huge leap forward for our three nations as we join forces on global security. Thousands of jobs across the UK, especially in north-west England, will benefit. This endeavour will also showcase British industrial might to our allies.”
Funding and Timelines
The Prime Minister confirmed a £5 billion MoD boost over the next two years, funding the modernisation of the UK’s nuclear capabilities and advancing the AUKUS sub programme. This follows last year’s £2 billion investment in the Dreadnought-class subs.
Construction of the UK’s SSN-AUKUS subs will kick off towards the end of this decade. Final decisions on the number of subs will come later, depending on changing security threats. BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce will build the vessels.
Fast-Tracking Australian Submarine Capability
To speed up Australian capability, Royal Australian Navy personnel will embed with British and US forces and industrial bases by year-end. This hands-on training will prepare Australia to operate its own fleet.
From this year, US submarines will increase visits to Australian ports, with UK subs joining from 2026. From 2027, British and US nuclear subs will deploy long-term to Australia, helping ramp up workforce, infrastructure, and regulatory systems.
In the interim, America plans to sell Australia Virginia-Class subs in the 2030s to bridge the gap until SSN-AUKUS units are ready.
Global Security and Non-Proliferation
The AUKUS programme has worked closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency to ensure all countries involved protect sensitive information and strengthen global nuclear non-proliferation commitments.
