Rolls-Royce long-life core powers Royal Navy’s new submarine

Rolls-Royce, a world-leading provider of power systems and services for use on land, at sea and in the air, is the driving force behind a new submarines era which began today with the launch of HMS Astute, the first new Royal Navy submarine to feature the Rolls-Royce long-life nuclear core.

This will be capable of providing power for the ship’s entire service life of over 25 years without the need to refuel.

Steve Ludlam, Rolls-Royce President – Submarines, said: “The long-life core is the fifth generation of core produced by Rolls-Royce, which also delivered the first pressurised water reactor for HMS Dreadnought in 1963. The launch of HMS Astute marks another milestone in our history of technological excellence and commitment to safety.”

In addition, Rolls-Royce has also provided submarine propulsors for the first time, and HMS Astute will be the first new submarine to have switchgear and electrical systems under the Rolls-Royce name, following the company’s acquisition of VT Controls in 2003.

The latest core has been trialled at the Vulcan test establishment in Dounreay, Scotland, since 2002. Rolls-Royce operates the Vulcan site on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

HMS Astute, the first of a Royal Navy Astute class of vessels, was manufactured and launched by BAE SYSTEMS at Barrow-in-Furness.