HMS Vanguard (S28), one of four Royal Navy submarines with Trident II ballistic missiles and nuclear warheads, will undergo an overhaul

The Royal Navy has planned to repair the nuclear submarine HMS Vanguard (S28). This will be carried out by Babcock.

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The company has been awarded a contract by the Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA). The agreement involves a major overhaul to ensure the nuclear submarine is operational for the remainder of its remaining service life.

The work will take place at the UK company's facility in Plymouth. HMS Vanguard (S28) arrived on site for the overhaul work in June this year. The project could create approximately 1,000 jobs and will provide Babcock with a labour force to continue to support the Vanguard class submarines.

HMS Vanguard (S28) was the first of four Vanguard class nuclear-powered submarines. They are the carriers of UGM-133A Trident II intercontinental ballistic missiles (up to 16) with nuclear warheads (up to 48) and a maximum launch range of approximately 7,000-12,000 depending on load.

The submarines were launched in 1992 and handed over to the Royal Navy almost a year and a half later. In addition to HMS Vanguard (S28), the UK built three other submarines that became Trident II missile carriers: HMS Victorious, HMS Vigilant and HMS Vengeance. They are labelled S29, S30 and S31 respectively.

The submarines are nearing the end of their service life. Starting next decade, the UK Royal Navy will use Dreadnought-class submarines, which will also be able to carry Trident II (D5) missiles.

Source: Babcock