Britain is preparing ocean-based support for its doomsday submarines

The United Kingdom is advancing plans to build floating dry docks at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland to support its fleet of nuclear missile submarines, particularly as it prepares to introduce the next-generation Dreadnought-class submarines. Known as Programme Euston, this initiative aims to alleviate maintenance capacity constraints by providing enhanced out-of-water support for the Royal Navy’s submarines, including the current Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines, Astute-class attack submarines, and the forthcoming Dreadnought class. The Ministry of Defence has entered the early development phase of the project, with a manufacturing contract to be awarded after finalizing technical specifications and completing procurement, though no timeline has been specified. The Dreadnought-class submarines, central to the UK’s nuclear deterrent, will displace about 17,200 metric tons, measure approximately 153.6 meters in length, and carry a crew of around 130 personnel. They will be equipped with 12 Trident II D5 ballistic