The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) has detailed progress in its Dreadnought and SSN-A submarine programmes. HMS Dreadnought, the first of the next-generation strategic deterrent submarines, reached a key milestone with the completion of its largest structural segment, referred to as a “mega unit”, UK Defence Journal reports.
This substantial section was transported through Barrow-in-Furness to the Devonshire Dock Hall, a prominent feature of the town’s skyline. The SDA emphasised this achievement as evidence of “the ongoing advancement of the Dreadnought programme.”
Progress was also highlighted within the Astute programme, with the SDA reporting a Review Note submitted for final approval in March 2024. The agency stated that “robust performance metrics” have driven improvements, noting that collaboration with BAE Systems continues to stabilise the programme, mitigate risks, and capitalise on opportunities.
However, the report acknowledged the complexities involved, including “the significance of the ‘last of Class’ risk,” which will require focused effort in the final years of the programme.
The SSN-A programme, representing a cornerstone of the AUKUS trilateral pact between the UK, the US, and Australia, also achieved a critical milestone. Entering its detailed design and long lead procurement phase, the programme secured £4 billion in contracts to propel development of the next generation of nuclear-powered attack submarines.
The SDA described this as a “pivotal moment not only for the UK but also for the trilateral AUKUS programme,” reaffirming the collective effort to advance cutting-edge naval capabilities.
