One of the UK’s most advanced submarines, used to defend the country from Russia, is currently out of action as it lies stranded in port while it awaits repairs.
HMS Audacious, the Royal Navy’s Astute-class nuclear-powered submarine, has been hailed as one of the most sophisticated underwater vehicles ever constructed.
However, the vessel is set to be grounded for a whole year as the Royal Navy has no dry docks capable of repairing the sub.
According to reports, the only dry dock capable of bearing the sub is currently receiving repairs itself and won’t be ready until Spring at the earliest.
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The underwater vessel The underwater vessel is currently stranded at HMNB Devonport, Plymouth, next to a submarine graveyard.
National security fellow at the Council on Geostrategy William Freer, warned it was likely there were times when the UK had zero attack submarines in the water to defend the nation.
“The Astute-class submarines are one of the most capable underwater platforms in the world, but there is no point in having them if they are unable to be made ready in an acceptable time frame,” Freer told the Express.
“It is believed that there have been times this year when none of the Royal Navy’s attack submarines have been at sea, which is a serious risk.
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The underwater vessel is currently stranded at HMNB Devonport, Plymouth, next to a submarine graveyard
PA
“If the British public knows there are vulnerabilities from a lack of readiness in the Armed Forces, then the Russians and the Chinese will also definitely be aware.”
The comments come after an increased level of “submarine and underwater activity” from Russia.
Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin warned this level of activity had not been seen since the Cold War.
He continued to warn it would take “a long time” to get HMS Audacious back to full working order.
The comments come after an increased level of “submarine and underwater activity” from Russia
PA
According to the Sun, the vessel has been earmarked for major refits and nuclear refuelling although the exact nature of the work remains unclear.
Babcock, the company contracted to fix HMS Audacious said works were on schedule and that some repairs were already underway.
“Work in 15 Dock is progressing to schedule in support of the wider submarine maintenance programme,” a Babcock spokesperson said.
“The planned work on HMS Audacious is already underway.”
