Photo: IANS
The UK government and Rolls-Royce have signed the largest contract in the history of cooperation, worth £9 billion, to build nuclear reactors for nuclear submarines. The deal was announced by Defence Secretary John Healey during a visit to Rolls-Royce’s production centre in Derby, the BBC reports.
The contract, known as Unity, is for eight years. It is aimed at developing, manufacturing and supporting nuclear reactors. The deal will create more than 1,000 new jobs and retain another 4,000 in the UK.
The main areas of the Unity contract:
- Modernisation of the existing fleet: Reactors to support existing Royal Navy submarines.
- Construction of the Dreadnought class: Four newest nuclear-powered submarines to strengthen strategic nuclear deterrence.
- Project Aukus: Development of submarines within the framework of a defence alliance between the UK, USA and Australia.
The Defence Minister stressed that the agreement will provide “triple support” for strategic security: production of new submarines, continuous patrolling at sea and fleet modernisation.
“The partnership with Rolls-Royce ensures that the UK remains among the world leaders in defence technology,” said John Healey.
Steve Carlier, President of Rolls-Royce Submarines, noted that the contract will allow for significant investment in the development of skills, equipment and infrastructure, which is in the country’s long-term interests.
“This agreement is an investment in our future. It will support our defence capability and innovation,” said Carlier.
Aukus Alliance: an innovative approach to security
As part of the Aukus alliance, Rolls-Royce will develop submarine reactors to be built in the UK and Australia using the advanced technologies of the three countries. The Aukus Alliance aims to strengthen regional security and technological development.
This large-scale project underlines the UK’s ambition to maintain its leading role in global security by providing a modern fleet of nuclear submarines.
