The 'Successor' submarines, which will carry the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent, will be the largest and most advanced boats operated by the Royal Navy, & two  contracts worth £47 million and £32 million have been awarded to BAE Systems Maritime-Submarines who are leading on the design of the vessels.

The investment will allow BAE Systems, who currently have more than a thousand people working on the Successor programme, to begin work on some initial items for the submarines that are due to replace the Vanguard Class from 2028. The Defence Secretary explained that it is essential these items, which include structural fittings, electrical equipment, castings and forgings are ordered now to ensure the submarines are able to meet their in-service date.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said:
"This £79 million investment is another important milestone in our preparations to build these world-leading submarines. The current Vanguard Class of deterrent submarines perform a vital role in the defence of the UK and the replacement for this capability is of national importance."

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir George Zambellas added:
"The Royal Navy has been operating continuous at-sea deterrent patrols for more than 40 years and the Successor submarines will allow us to do so with cutting-edge equipment well into the future.
The submarines are being designed to be some of the stealthiest in the world and are expected to see operational service from the late 2020s right up to the 2060s."