In March 2014 the MoD admitted there was a minor concern about the integrity of the nuclear reactors which power Vanguard class submarines. As a precaution, HMS Vanguard currently in refit at Devonport has been given a second new reactor core. This week the government quietly announced that technical assessments have now concluded this procedure will not be necessary for the other three boats. Between 2002 and 2012 all four of the Vanguard class Trident missile submarines underwent a Long Overhaul Period (Refuel) at Devonport and were retrofitted with ‘Core H’ pressurised water reactors (PWR-2). Core H was designed to last until the boats decommission and avoid the expense of another refuelling.
Save the Royal Navy 7th Nov 2018 read more »