Steady as she goes

80 tonne Astute class submarine module gets ready for the next stage of the build

The steelwork structure for the command deck module of the fifth Astute class submarine, to be called HMS Anson, has been delivered to BAE Systems' Devonshire Dock Hall build facility.

The 80 tonne module will house the accommodation areas for the Royal Navy crew, including the commanding officer’s cabin, mess facilities, galley, laundry and ward room, as well as the main control room.

The nuclear submarine was constructed in the shipyard’s main steelwork and fabrication facility, before being moved to to the build hall. It will now undergo shot blast and painting.

HMS Anson is expected to enter Royal Navy service in 2020, following on from HMS Astute, Ambush, Artful and Audacious.

Astute class facts:

• The vessels are 97 metres long and weigh 7,400 tonnes.
• The nuclear plant is more complex than that of a power station.
• The submarines do not to require refuelling throughout their 25 year lifespan.
• They can strike at targets up to 1,000 km from the coast, with pinpoint accuracy. 
• The sonar suite has the processing power of 2,000 computers.
• Astute class is capable of circumnavigating the globe without surfacing.
• The submarines are one of the first to be designed in an entirely three-dimensional, computer-aided environment.