The Dreadnought sonar system will be developed at the
global technology firm’s sites in Templecombe,
Somerset, and Stockport. The periscope - known as the
‘Combat System Mast’ - will be manufactured in Govan
with technical input from the workforce in Crawley.
Thales UK has been a trusted Continuous at-Sea
Deterrence (CASD) partner with the MOD and Royal Navy
since the first operation in 1969.
Defence Minister said:
I am delighted to continue our 50-year strong
partnership with Thales. These next-generation sonars
and sensors will ensure our nuclear deterrent retains
a stealth and detection advantage over adversaries.
With over 500 jobs created or secured by this
contract, we are clearly acting on the government’s
commitment to level-up across the UK.
The fleet will also be equipped with Thales Sonar 2076;
providing them with the latest in acoustic detection
capability. The visual and situational awareness sensor
will combine electronic warfare technology with cameras
to provide the Dreadnought crew with a visual link to
the sea surface.
The next-generation Dreadnought submarines will be the
Royal Navy’s most advanced submarines ever when they
enter service from the early 2030s and will be vital in
providing the UK’s nuclear deterrent, as they replace
the Vanguard class of ballistic missile submarines.
Most of the jobs being created by the sub-contract to
Thales UK are highly-skilled and in manufacturing,
engineering and design. There will be 30 new posts in
both Templecombe and Cheadle Heath, where 50 jobs will
be secured at each site respectively. In Govan, 35 jobs
will be secured while another 30 will be maintained in
Crawley. Thales directly employs more than 7,000 people
in the UK across ten sites.
Thales Chief Executive Victor Chavez said:
Thales is immensely proud of our contribution to the
Continuous at-Sea Deterrent over the last 50 years.
This announcement represents a £330m investment in
world-class sonar and optronics systems; providing
the battle-winning edge for the Royal Navy.
Having supported the deterrent since its inception,
and with over a century of supplying periscopes to
the Royal Navy, I am proud that our engineers
continue to deliver cutting edge innovative
technology at sites across the UK.
, BAE Submarine
Solutions’ Dreadnought programme director, said:
This major step, reflecting collaborative working
between the Dreadnought Alliance and Thales UK, will
make a direct contribution to the sustainment of
Continuous at-Sea Deterrence through the delivery of
the next generation of the UK’s ballistic missile
carrying submarines.
The £31 billion Dreadnought programme is one of the
most complex engineering projects ever undertaken by
the UK Government and remains on schedule and within
budget.
