Baroness Goldie Hosts NATO Chiefs at Faslane
Defence Minister Baroness Goldie welcomed key members of the North Atlantic Council and NATO Military Committee to His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde, aka Faslane, today. The event underlined the UK’s rock-solid commitment to NATO security and its nuclear deterrent.
Scotland: Heart of UK Defence
- Faslane is home to the UK’s Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD), with around 7,000 jobs supported on site.
- Scotland hosts vital defence assets including RAF Lossiemouth’s Quick Reaction Alert and shipbuilding yards producing Type 26 and Type 31 frigates.
- The UK has tied its nuclear deterrent to NATO’s defence since 1962, offering protection to all Allies.
Massive Investment Boosts Nuclear Deterrent
Baroness Goldie highlighted a recent £3 billion funding boost, securing the future of Britain’s nuclear forces. This investment not only safeguards the nation but also powers economic growth and skills development, a top priority for the government.
Two new £1.7 billion contracts have been signed with BAE Systems to advance the Dreadnought submarines, the next generation replacing the Vanguard Class.
Leaders Praise UK’s NATO Role
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace: “We have declared our nuclear deterrent to NATO for over 60 years. Our commitment to the Alliance’s security is absolute. The UK’s round-the-clock deterrent is the ultimate guarantee of collective security.”
Baroness Goldie: “Ongoing investment in the nuclear deterrent is crucial to keeping the UK and our NATO Allies safe from extreme threats. Scotland remains a cornerstone of UK defence and economy.”
First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key: “For 54 years, the Royal Navy has operated submarines carrying our independent nuclear deterrent. It’s fantastic to host our NATO partners here at HMNB Clyde, meeting the dedicated women and men behind this vital work.”
New Naval Assets to Boost NATO Surveillance
The UK will also soon roll out its new Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance (MROS) vessel, RFA Proteus—currently getting a quick refit at Cammell Laird. This cutting-edge ship will join the Royal Fleet Auxiliary later this year, enhancing subsea surveillance and protecting critical infrastructure for the UK and its NATO allies.
