Milestone achieved in MoD submarine dismantling project

Decommissioned submarine 'Swiftsure' has its fin cut and removed. Crown copyright

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 re-used 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 re-purposed 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 Ian Murray 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 submarines, building on the £15 billion investment set out for the UK’s sovereign nuclear warhead programme.

Proven dismantling method
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, added: “The Project showcases our commitment to sustainable disposal practices. By recycling materials wherever possible, we are ensuring these vessels that served the nation so well continue to provide value even after decommissioning.”

Alistair Hughes, head of DRDT at 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.