The Defence Nuclear Enterprise's (DNE) Submarine Dismantling
Project has achieved a major milestone as it completes the fin
cut and removal on the demonstrator submarine,
Swiftsure.
She will become the first decommissioned Royal Navy submarine to
be dismantled by the end of 2026, establishing a unique and
world-first methodology to disposal.
The innovative programme of work will enable around 90% of the
submarine's structure and components to be reused or recycled,
providing a safe, environmentally responsible and cost-effective
solution for the recycling of the UK's decommissioned nuclear
fleet.
The disposal approach was supported by the results of two public
consultations in 2012 and 2015 and reflects the DNE's commitment
to act as a responsible nuclear operator.
Lessons from Swiftsure will develop the blueprint for the
recycling of the remaining decommissioned Pressurised Water
Reactor 1 submarines, with high quality steel already recovered
from decommissioned submarines being repurposed into components
for future submarines.
The fin removal is part of a truly national endeavour, delivered
by the DNE in collaboration with Babcock and Defence Equipment
and Support's Defence Recycling & Disposals Team
(DRDT).
Scottish Secretary said:
National security and environmental responsibility are at the
heart of our commitment to act as a responsible nuclear operator
- a technology which will play a key role in the UK Royal Navy's
submarine fleet keeping us safe for years to come.
Just this week as part of the Strategic Defence Review, the Prime
Minister came to Scotland to announce up to 12 new
nuclear-powered attack subs, building on the £15 billion
investment set out for the UK's sovereign nuclear warhead
programme.
Sir Chris Gardner KBE, CEO of the Submarine Delivery
Agency, said:
To see the fin of Swiftsure removed is a significant marker of
progress in the Defence Nuclear Enterprise's Submarine
Dismantling Project. Our colleagues continue to work tirelessly
alongside our industry partners in Rosyth to deliver a proven
dismantling method using this demonstrator vessel. My thanks go
to everyone involved in this groundbreaking work.
Lorraine Russell, Senior Responsible Owner for the
Submarine Disposals Programme, said:
The Project showcases our commitment to sustainable disposal
practices. By recycling materials wherever possible, we're
ensuring these vessels that served the nation so well continue to
provide value even after decommissioning.
Alistair Hughes, Head of DRDT, DE&S said:
This sustainable solution has shown how we can extract the
maximum value from surplus assets and improve Defence's
supply-chain resilience, while ensuring national security and
prosperity remains at the core of what we do.
The project has also provided valuable hands-on experience for
the next generation of nuclear industry professionals. The
Submarine Dismantling Project supports 200 highly-skilled jobs in
Rosyth and remains on schedule to dismantle Swiftsure by the end
of 2026, fulfilling the Department's 2019 commitment to the
Public Accounts Committee.
