Britain is preparing a large-scale upgrade of its military capabilities: a plan to build 12 nuclear submarines as part of the strategic defense integration known as AUKUS
This decision reflects changes in global security conditions and strengthens the United Kingdom’s position amid potential military threats from Russia. According to the reputable British newspaper The Sunday Times, the UK government is developing an extensive modernization project for its submarine fleet, aimed at shifting the balance of naval power for the long term. The plan involves constructing 12 modern attack nuclear submarines to replace the current seven Astute-class submarines, which remain the backbone of the British conventional submarine fleet. In addition, by the 2030s, four more strategic submarines equipped with Trident nuclear missiles are expected to be introduced — likely forming the sea-based component of the country’s nuclear deterrence. It is noted that these new nuclear submarines will become an integral part of the UK’s security strategy within the framework of the trilateral AUKUS alliance, formed in 2021 between the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. This alliance envisions active cooperation in military technology and information-sharing, as well as joint development and production of next-generation submarines. According to plans, at least 20 modern submarines will be created under AUKUS, enhancing the nation’s ability to maintain maritime dominance. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak officially announced significant investments in the defense sector. A budget of no less than 15 billion pounds sterling (around 20 billion US dollars) is allocated for the development of nuclear warheads. This initiative has become a key element of the country’s new security policy, as for the first time in history, Britain openly discloses the number of nuclear attack submarines it plans to build and the scale of investments in nuclear arsenals. It is expected that details regarding rearmament and the update of Britain's military strategy will be published in the Strategic Defense Review, scheduled for release on Monday, June 2. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace emphasized that the country must be prepared for possible armed aggression from Russia. According to him, the new review aims to send a "signal to Moscow" about London’s seriousness in protecting its interests and strengthening its defense capabilities. Overall, the 130-page document will outline further steps to enhance the combat readiness of the British armed forces. It will recommend moving military units into a heightened state of readiness for rapid response to an "imminent and acute" threat from Russia and other potential adversaries. This signals a new era of strategic realism, where London not only seeks to modernize its nuclear forces but also aims to demonstrate firmness and readiness to defend its interests in a tense geopolitical environment.