
The Royal Navy has reached a significant milestone with the launch of its sixth Agamemnon-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, marking the conclusion of its construction phase. The next steps involve rigorous testing, with the goal of integrating the submarine into the Royal Navy by 2025.
Part of the Astute class, the Agamemnon showcases advanced British submarine engineering. It spans approximately 97 meters and weighs around 7,400 tons, designed to accommodate a larger crew and a wide range of missions. With a nuclear propulsion system, it offers nearly unlimited operational range and can achieve speeds of up to 30 knots underwater.
Equipped with state-of-the-art sonar and radar technologies, Agamemnon excels in target detection and tracking. It features six torpedo tubes capable of launching a variety of torpedoes and guided missiles, making it a powerful asset in underwater combat.
The submarine’s launch at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, was celebrated as a significant achievement. Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems Submarines, praised the hard work of thousands of skilled professionals involved in its development. He emphasized the complexity of constructing a nuclear submarine and the contributions from the Defense Nuclear Enterprise and the Royal Navy.
This Astute-class submarine, which cost the UK around £1.3 billion, was funded by the Ministry of Defense. Construction began in 2011, and despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, key milestones have been achieved. Challenges in integrating new sonar and control systems required additional testing and modifications, while global supply chain disruptions delayed some components. Nonetheless, the Agamemnon is poised to provide the Royal Navy with a significant advantage in future operations.
Thanks to its nuclear propulsion, the submarine can conduct extended missions without refueling, reaching speeds of up to 30 knots. Its ability to carry 38 torpedoes and guided missiles makes it effective in both surface and underwater engagements, while also supporting land-based operations. Agamemnon’s advanced sonar systems allow it to perform reconnaissance and surveillance missions, essential in today’s heightened military environment. Its stealth design ensures minimal radar detection, increasing its chances of mission success.
Agamemnon’s integration into modern networked combat systems enhances the UK’s strategic capabilities, especially in coordination with allied forces. Following its launch, a series of tests will assess its technical and operational performance. These tests will focus on propulsion, navigation, and the nuclear reactor system, ensuring the submarine’s reliability across a range of conditions. Weaponry systems, including sonar and torpedo launchers, will also undergo thorough testing to verify their precision in various scenarios.
The submarine’s intelligence and surveillance equipment will be evaluated to ensure it can process data in real-time during operations. Once these trials are completed, Agamemnon will be ready for active deployment, bolstering the UK’s naval presence on the global stage.
Agamemnon’s crew will consist of approximately 98 members, including officers and sailors, each responsible for navigation, propulsion, weapons systems, reconnaissance, and maintaining the submarine’s operations. Officers in charge of the nuclear reactor will complete specialized safety and nuclear physics training, while the rest of the crew will focus on combat tactics, munitions handling, and intelligence operations.
The crew undergoes extensive training in simulated environments, preparing them for real-world scenarios and challenges. This ensures that they are fully equipped to manage the submarine’s complex systems and contribute to the UK’s national security in a variety of missions.