The UK is decommissioning one of its nuclear-powered submarines, using an innovative methodology that will enable 90 percent of the vessel to be reused or recycled.
As part of this approach, Babcock is overseeing the dismantling of Swiftsure’s radiological components and has contracted London-based Veolia to lead the recycling and facilitate the reuse of most of the submarine’s structure.
This includes materials such as steel and the reactor compartment within the pressure hull.
Harry Holt, Chief Executive of Babcock Nuclear Sector, referred to the program as a “world first” that combines “our nuclear expertise and our ability to bring the best of industry together.”
Chief Operating Officer of Veolia, John Abraham, said the project “will mark a new sustainable way of decommissioning and recycling this type of vessel.”
“We will deliver this world-first project as part of our GreenUp strategic program designed to depollute, decarbonize and preserve resources,” he added.
Submarine Dismantling Project
The Submarine Dismantling Project, led by the UK Ministry of Defence’s Submarine Delivery Agency on behalf of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, was created to handle the complex process of dismantling and disposing of nuclear-powered submarines.
The initiative, approved in 2013, provides a structured, long-term approach to safely dismantling 27 no longer in use vessels.
In July, the submarine Swiftsure entered its final phases of dismantling, which is taking place at Babcock’s facility in Rosyth.
The process involves identifying and safely removing any remaining classified components, alongside rigorous testing to confirm areas of the vessel as free from radioactive material.