UK defence firm begins upgrades on Devonport submarine support facilities

UK defence and security company the Babcock International Group has started a series of major infrastructure projects at Devonport in Plymouth.

Over the next 10 years, Babcock will develop state of-the-art facilities to meet the evolving requirements of the Royal Navy. Specifically, the improvement works will enhance the company’s capability to support the navy’s submarines.

Babcock said the major upgrades will enable deep maintenance work packages for the latest class of nuclear-powered fleet submarines. Dock upgrades to support the Astute-class submarine operational programme will enable optimisation of maintenance on the platforms between HM Naval Base Clyde and Devonport dockyard.

Work has begun with the demolition of existing infrastructure including office blocks around the site’s 10 Dock facility.

In parallel with the 10 Dock project, preparations are also underway for an extensive outage project for the adjacent 9 Dock. This project, managed by an integrated Bechtel and Cavendish Nuclear programme delivery team, will deliver maintenance, life extension and facility improvements to the dock for the Vanguard-class submarines.

The infrastructure works are being carried out by Babcock alongside the Ministry of Defence and in collaboration with delivery partners Costain, Mott MacDonald, and Mace.