BAE launches latest nuclear-powered attack submarine

HMS Artful will begin the next phase of its test and commissioning process ahead of sea trials next year

BAE Systems has launched Artful, the third of seven Astute-class submarines being built for the Royal Navy, into the dock at its site in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria.

The 97m long, 7,400 tonne nuclear-powered attack submarine began edging out of BAE Systems' construction hall last week and was lowered into the water over the weekend.

Stuart Godden, Astute programme director for BAE Systems, said: "Building on past experiences we've been able to launch her in the most advanced state of construction of any submarine to be built in Barrow. This allows us to now fully concentrate on the test and commissioning activities required to get her to sea.

"Moving a submarine of this size from its build hall to the water is very challenging. It's testament to the experience and careful planning of the team involved that Artful is now ready for the next phase in her programme.”

Artful will now begin the next phase of its test and commissioning process ahead of sea trials next year.

BAE Systems, the prime contractor in the Astute programme, is the UK's only designer and builder of nuclear-powered submarines.

The first two submarines in the Astute class - HMS Astute and HMS Ambush - have been handed over to the UK Royal Navy, while the remaining five are in various stages of construction.

BAE Systems is also leading on the design of a replacement to the Vanguard-class of submarine, working alongside the Ministry of Defence, Babcock and Rolls-Royce.