The Government’s new Defence Secretary has reinforced Britain’s commitment to the nuclear deterrent.
John Healey was in Scotland and boarded the Vanguard-Class submarine for the final leg of its return journey to HM Naval Base Clyde after completing the UK’s latest patrol.
The mission, known as Operation Relentless, or the Continuous At Sea Deterrent, ensures that at least one nuclear-powered and armed ballistic missile submarine is at sea at all times to deter potential adversaries and protect the nation and NATO allies. The next vessel in the deterrent cycle is already at sea and patrolling.
He reinforced the new Government’s commitment to its triple-lock on the deterrent, which includes building four new nuclear submarines in Barrow, maintaining the continuous at sea nuclear deterrent and delivering all future upgrades needed.
Mr Healey said: “Our new Government is unwavering in our commitment to our nuclear deterrent, maintained on behalf of the UK and our NATO allies. Our triple-lock will safeguard Britain for generations to come.”
A new class of ballistic submarine – the Dreadnought class – is currently under construction at Barrow and is expected to replace the Vanguard submarines by the 2030s, securing the future of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
More than 40,000 UK jobs are supported through defence nuclear work, making it a key area that boosts economic growth.
