U.K. To Build 12 Attack Submarines Under AUKUS Deal

The U.K. will build up to 12 conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines as part of the AUKUS programme, the Prime Minister is set to announce in a major Strategic Defence Review aimed at addressing rising global threats.

The SSN-AUKUS submarines will replace the current Astute-class fleet from the late 2030s and will be built at an accelerated pace—one every 18 months—at expanded industrial sites in Barrow-in-Furness and Derby. The move marks a significant expansion of the U.K.'s submarine-building capacity and is expected to transform the defence industry while supporting national security.

The announcement coincides with the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, which recommends moving the U.K. Armed Forces to "warfighting readiness" in response to evolving threats, particularly from Russia. The review includes 62 recommendations, which the government is expected to accept in full.

 In addition to the submarine expansion, the government is investing £15 billion into the U.K.'s sovereign nuclear warhead programme during this parliament. This includes significant infrastructure upgrades at the Atomic Weapons Establishment in Aldermaston, Berkshire, supporting over 9,000 jobs and involving some of the most advanced scientific and manufacturing capabilities in the country.

The Strategic Defence Review also outlines:

• A new CyberEM Command with £1 billion in digital and cyber investments
• Construction of at least six new munitions factories to create an “always on” production capability
• Procurement of up to 7,000 long-range U.K.-built weapons
• £1.5 billion in funding to repair and renew military housing

A commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with an ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament

The submarine and warhead investments are part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, which aims to support 30,000 apprenticeships and 14,000 graduate roles over the next ten years. This expansion will also strengthen the U.K.’s contributions to NATO and ensure the country remains prepared for high-tempo warfare scenarios.

The Dreadnought-class submarines, which will replace the Vanguard-class carrying the U.K.’s Trident nuclear missiles, also remain a key commitment, alongside the continuous-at-sea deterrent.