During the early 1960's, the Royal Navy decided to build the country's first nuclear powered submarine, a vessel known as HMS Dreadnought. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II launched the submarine on Trafalgar Day 1960.
Dreadnought is a nuclear-powered attack submarine. It has an original hull design. This is unlike conventional submarines that have sharp bows. The shape of the hull allows for more space under the casing. This extra space is useful for future sensors and countermeasures. Active sonar is also deflected by the hull.
The United States supplies the nuclear power that powers the submarine. This has reduced the time it takes to develop the submarine. Similar facilities and equipment were provided by the Electric Boat Division, General Dynamics Corporation. The crew and officers were 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 is equipped with an inertial navigation device that allows for precise navigation underwater. Independent of ground-based aids, the system was able pinpoint the exact position and orientation of the submarine. It was also completely autonomous and invulnerable at all to jamming. This submarine was also the first British sub-marine to reach the North Pole.
Dreadnought's service life is long. Its hull design means that it can be operated by 130 crew members. It will have a separate sick bay as well as female crew quarters. There will be a classroom and a gymnasium on board. You will find exercise bikes, rowers and other modern equipment.
Dreadnought has a revolutionary 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 on the new design will allow for modifications to the ship's design to create a more organic appearance.
The new Dreadnought class will have an improved sick bay and classroom facility. Separate quarters for female crew members will be available as well as exercise equipment. The vessel will also feature a modern gym that includes running machines. The new submarine is equipped with air conditioning, purification equipment, and a swimming pool.
It is expected that the first Dreadnought Class submarine will enter service in the early 2030's. It will be able to serve for at least 35 years. It will be unique in its shape, which will deflect active sonar as well as electromagnetic tracking. A chine will run along the entire length of the ship's hull. This will allow the ship to have sloping sides that run down its hull.
The United Kingdom's defense will include the Dreadnought. It will provide a deterrent against possible attacks. It is also expected that it will provide valuable experience for Royal Navy. This vessel will play a crucial role in the Royal Navy's new class of ballistic missile submarines.