The Royal Navy began building the nation's first nuclear-powered submarine during the 1960s. This vessel was known as HMS Dreadnought. The submarine was launched on Trafalgar Day 1960 by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth.
Dreadnought was originally designed to be a nuclear-powered attack submarine. It has an innovative hull form. This is unlike conventional submarines that have sharp bows. The shape of the hull allows for more space under the casing. This extra space can be used to accommodate future sensors and countermeasures. Active sonar can be deflected from the hull.
The United States supplies nuclear machinery for the submarine. This greatly reduced development time. General Dynamics Corporation's Electric Boat Division also provided training facilities. Crew and officers of the vessel are trained in United States techniques. The ship has air conditioning equipment and purification equipment that allow the crew to work in a comfortable atmosphere.
Dreadnought features an inertial navigator system that can provide accurate navigation below water. Independent of ground-based aids, the system was able pinpoint the exact position and orientation of the submarine. It was also immune to jamming, and completely automatic. This submarine was also the first British sub-marine to reach the North Pole.
The Dreadnought is designed to last a long time. The vessel's hull design allows it to be operated with 130 crew members. The vessel will also feature a separate sick bay, and female crew quarters. The vessel will also have a school and a gym. The vessel will have rowers and exercise bikes.
Dreadnought will have an innovative new lighting system. This will allow for night and day simulations. It will also feature a new Turbo-Electric drive that will improve quietness. For increased power, the Dreadnought Class submarines will use a Pump Jet propelsor. A bow dome will be added to the new design, which will allow it to be modified to an organic form.
The Dreadnought will get a better sickbay and classroom facility. Additionally, there will be separate quarters for female crew and equipment. Modern running machines will be provided in the modern gym. The new submarine will come with air conditioning equipment and purification equipment.
It is anticipated that the first Dreadnought-class submarine will be operational by the end of the 2030's. It is expected that the vessel will last at least 35 more years. The boat's unique shape will allow it to deflect electromagnetic tracking and active sonar. A chine will run along the entire length of the ship's hull. This will allow for sides that run down the hull with sloping edges.
Dreadnought will be a key element in the United Kingdom's defense. It will provide a deterrent against possible attacks. It will also provide valuable experience to the Royal Navy. The vessel will be a key part of the Royal Navy's new ballistic missile submarine class.