UK Reaffirms Plan for Up to 12 SSN-AUKUS Submarines, Targeting One Boat Every 18 Months

Britain has reaffirmed its intention to procure up to 12 SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered attack submarines, with investment intended to establish capacity for one delivery every 18 months from the mid-2030s. The final boat count is expected to be confirmed before the Detailed Design and Long Lead phase ends in 2028. The preliminary design review concluded on July 1, 2026, and first steel cutting for a British submarine is planned in 2027. The common UK-Australian design will succeed the Royal Navy's Astute class, with the first British boat expected to enter service in the late 2030s.