Next-generation nuclear submarines spur Rolls-Royce factory expansion

Rolls-Royce Submarines (RRS) is expanding its Derby manufacturing site to meet growing demand for reactors for the UK’s next generation of nuclear-powered attack submarines.

The expansion will add more than 100,000m2 of new manufacturing and office facilities to the firm’s Raynesway site in Derby. A move that is estimated to create over 1,170 skilled roles across a range of disciplines, including manufacturing and engineering, plus hundreds more across the supply chain. 

It’s at this site where RRS designs, builds and supports the nuclear reactors that power every Royal Navy submarine. The UK’s next-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine programme, known as SSN-AUKUS, will see the construction of the largest and most powerful attack submarines the Royal Navy has ever operated.

RRS first announced plans for the Raynesway expansion in 2023 following the launch of the AUKUS pact – a security agreement between Australia, the UK and the US to support the development of Australian submarines that RRS will provide the reactors for.

It also signed a £9bn deal with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) last year to build nuclear reactors for the UK’s submarine fleet. In response to this increased demand, the firm said it would need to double the size of its Raynesway site.

RRS currently supports the existing Astute and Dreadnought boat build programmes through the delivery of reactors and associated components. The SSN-AUKUS attack submarines will eventually succeed the Astute class.

Abi Clayton, president of RRS, said: “Breaking ground is a significant step forward in the critical growth of our business. This expansion will more than double the size of our manufacturing facility, strengthening our capability and demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.”

Defence minister Lord Coaker said: “The expansion of the Rolls-Royce site is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to the UK’s nuclear deterrent. Witnessing the manufacturing of the fifth SSSN-AUKUS reactor and the hundreds of apprentices in action was inspiring – seeing defence investment creating jobs, driving growth, and keeping the UK safe.”

Last week, the government announced its long-delayed new defence investment plan (DIP), a 10-year strategy to modernise the UK’s armed forces through investment in new equipment and technologies. The plan includes £63bn in funding designed to strengthen the UK’s nuclear deterrent, including money for submarines, a new warhead and 12 F35A fighter jets.