Dreadnought Class
Type: submarine
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Manufacturer: BAE Systems
First Deployed: 2030
Overview
Next-generation nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) that will replace the Vanguard class as the United Kingdom's continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent (CASD). Displacement of approximately 17,200 tonnes submerged, making them the largest submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. Will carry 12 Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (reduced from 16 on Vanguard class). Features the Rolls-Royce PWR3 reactor with a life-of-boat core. Four boats planned with HMS Dreadnought expected to enter service in the early 2030s. Represents the UK's most expensive single defence procurement programme.
Technical Specifications
| cost | ~£31 billion+ |
|---|---|
| crew | ~130 |
| type | Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine (SSBN) |
| length | 153 m |
| planned | 4 boats |
| reactor | Rolls-Royce PWR3 (lifetime core, no refueling) |
| armament | 12x Trident II D5 SLBM tubes; torpedo tubes |
| displacement | ~17,200 tonnes (submerged) |
Operators
- United Kingdom
Related sea Weapon Systems
- JL-3 SLBM - Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (China)
- IAI Gabriel V - missile (Israel)
- Type 071 Yuzhao - amphibious (China)
- Akya - Heavy Torpedo (Turkey)
- Type 075 LHD - amphibious (China)
- Type 076 LHA - amphibious (China)
- Orka Class Submarine - submarine (Netherlands)
- Type 054A - frigate (China)
- Type 056A Jiangdao - corvette (China)
- AN/SPY-1 - Naval Multi-Function Radar (United States)