HMS Dreadnought, Royal Navy's Largest SubmarineArtist’s impression of HMS Dreadnought. © Royal Navy

The keel was laid on HMS Dreadnought, the Royal Navy’s largest submarine.

The ceremony at BAE Systems’ Barrow-in-Furness site marked the beginning of construction for the nuclear-powered and armed submarine, one of the most advanced in the world.

The Dreadnought-class submarines will replace the Vanguard fleet starting in the early 2030s. Built by BAE and Rolls-Royce, HMS Dreadnought will carry 16 nuclear missiles and torpedoes.

The Keel was Laid on HMS DreadnoughtThe Keel was Laid on HMS Dreadnought. © Royal Navy

Weighing over 17,000 tonnes, as long as 14 buses, and crewed by around 130 people, it will be the most advanced submarine of its kind. It will also introduce ‘adaptive’ lighting to mimic natural day and night cycles for the first time.

With a lifespan of over 30 years, the four submarines will continue the Royal Navy’s top military mission beyond a century of service.

HMS Dreadnought, Royal Navy's Largest SubmarineArtist’s impression of HMS Dreadnought. © Royal Navy

source Royal Navy