Image source: topwar.ru
Britain's nuclear deterrent forces are represented by 4 Vanguard-class submarines armed with ICBMs. When these submarines were commissioned in 1993-1999, it was assumed that they would last 25 years. Accordingly, the submarines are already close to wear and tear. Major repairs could solve this problem, at least for a certain period of time, but it is very difficult. So, it took the lead submarine of the Vanguard project 7 years instead of 3, and she returned to service only in 2022.
As a result, it is not possible to maintain a hiking schedule. As originally planned, one submarine will be on the stocks, while the patrol tasks will be distributed among the other three, taking into account the need for short-term repairs for 1-2 of them. However, problems with Vanguard's return to service and the deteriorating condition of the second-oldest class submarine, Victorious, led to the fact that the optimal service mode could not be maintained.
- it says in the NIS edition.
Image source: topwar.ru
So, in 2023, one of the submarines spent 195 days on a cruise. In 2004-2025, it was already 204 days, returning to the base on March 17. On this occasion, the Navy Lookout publication criticized:
Under these conditions, the command places all hopes on the construction of 4 new Dreadnought-class submarines. However, the laying of the keel (that is, the beginning of the connection of the sections) of the lead submarine, which has been under construction since 2016, took place only on March 20 of this year. In this regard, the timing of the commissioning of a new class of nuclear submarines is completely unclear. The government doesn't seem to know them either, hiding behind arguments about national security.
- The other day, the Ministry of Defense announced at least approximate dates.
Meanwhile, the local public regularly posts footage of rust-covered submarines returning to base after a long hike.
- Navy Lookout notes, calling for breaking out of this vicious circle.
