£2.5 Billion Investment In UK Nuclear Submarines To Be Announced

(Image: Royal Navy/Ministry of Defence).

A £2.5 billion investment in nuclear submarines will be revealed by the Defence Secretary to protect the UK "from intensifying threats". 

Gavin Williamson MP is set to announce a £1.5 billion contract to build a seventh Astute hunter-killer submarine for the Royal Navy. 

The Ministry of Defence planned the Astute-class to be a fleet of seven. 

The latest attack boat will be called 'Agincourt'. 

"This multibillion-pound investment in our nuclear submarines shows our unwavering commitment to keeping the UK safe and secure from intensifying threats."

The announcement will be made at BAE Systems' shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria. 

£960 million worth of contracts, signed to boost the second phase of construction for the UK's four nuclear armed Dreadnought submarines, will also be announced. 

Mr Williamson will say:

"This multibillion-pound investment in our nuclear submarines shows our unwavering commitment to keeping the UK safe and secure from intensifying threats.

"Agincourt will complete the Royal Navy's seven strong fleet of hunter-killer attack subs, the most powerful to ever enter British service, whilst our nuclear deterrent is the ultimate defence against the most extreme dangers we could possibly face."

The Ministry of Defence say the announcement will help support thousands of jobs in BAE Systems' submarine business.

"Not only is this a massive boost for our armed forces, but it's huge for Barrow, the heart of sub-building in this country.

"Today's news supports 8,000 BAE Systems' submarine jobs, as well as thousands more in the supply chain, protecting prosperity and providing opportunity right across the country," Mr Williamson will explain.

Whilst in Cumbria, Mr Williamson will officially open a new £100 million sub-construction building at the factory.

He will unveil a plaque in front of workers to mark the opening of the Central Yard facility, which will be used to outfit and test every part of the new Dreadnought submarines.