'Major milestone' achieved in submarine dismantling project
The programme of work will enable around 90% of the submarine's structure and components to be reused or recycled, providing a safe, environmentally responsible and cost-effective solution for the recycling of the UK's decommissioned nuclear fleet.
The disposal approach was supported by the results of two public consultations in 2012 and 2015 and reflects the DNE's commitment to act as a responsible nuclear operator.
Lessons from Swiftsure will develop the blueprint for the recycling of the remaining decommissioned Pressurised Water Reactor 1 submarines, with high quality steel already recovered from decommissioned submarines being re-purposed into components for future submarines.
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Today's fin removal is part of a truly national endeavour, delivered by the DNE in collaboration with Babcock and Defence Equipment and Support's Defence Recycling & Disposals Team (DRDT).
Sir Chris Gardner KBE, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency, said: 'To see the fin of Swiftsure removed is a significant marker of progress in the Defence Nuclear Enterprise's Submarine Dismantling Project. Our colleagues continue to work tirelessly alongside our industry partners in Rosyth to deliver a proven dismantling method using this demonstrator vessel. My thanks go to everyone involved in this ground-breaking work.'
Lorraine Russell, Senior Responsible Owner for the Submarine Disposals Programme, commented: "The Project showcases our commitment to sustainable disposal practices. By recycling materials wherever possible, we're ensuring these vessels that served the nation so well continue to provide value even after decommissioning."
Alistair Hughes, Head of DRDT, said: "This sustainable solution has shown how we can extract the maximum value from surplus assets and improve Defence's supply-chain resilience, whilst ensuring national security and prosperity remains at the core of what we do."
Swiftsure will become the first decommissioned Royal Navy submarine to be dismantled by the end of 2026 (Image: MOD Crown Copyright 2025)
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: "This is another fantastic example of how world-leading Scottish expertise plays such a vital role in the UK's defence. Around 25,600 jobs across Scotland are supported by an annual multi-billion pound Ministry of Defence investment - with 200 highly skilled roles in Rosyth involved in the submarine dismantling project.
"National security and environmental responsibility are at the heart of our commitment to act as a responsible nuclear operator - a technology which will play a key role in the UK Royal Navy's submarine fleet keeping us safe for years to come. Just this week as part of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) the Prime Minister came to Scotland to announce up to 12 new nuclear-powered attack subs, building on the £15 billion investment set out for the UK's sovereign nuclear warhead programme.
"Scotland has always been at the beating heart of the UK's defence and security and the (SDR) will restore Britain's readiness, deter our adversaries and help drive economic growth across the UK, as part of our Plan for Change."
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Scottish Sun
4 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
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