The three-stage dismantling method allows the less hazardous parts of a submarine’s nuclear reactor core, known as Low-Level Radioactive Waste ( LLW) to be removed first, followed by removal of the Reactor Pressure Vessel which is classed as Intermediate Level Radioactive Waste (ILW). This approach meets government policies for managing radioactive waste and was supported by the results of 2 public consultations in 20. The SDA is taking a three-stage approach to dismantling. Once the nuclear fuel is removed and transported to Sellafield for storage the submarine can formally enter the SDP. They undergo an annual survey and maintenance programme and a more in-depth survey and maintenance regime in nuclear-licensed docks, to preserve and test the systems as well as ensure submarine hull integrity. While our submarines are being stored, waiting to be defueled and then dismantled, they pose no additional safety risk to workers or members of the public. This requires managing after the submarine leaves service. During submarine operations, nuclear reactions cause radioactive substances to be generated in the pipework and components within the reactor compartment.
UK submarines are powered by nuclear reactors. They are subject to regular maintenance and checks by both the MOD, the Defence Nuclear Safety Regulator and the Office for Nuclear Regulation, to comply with the required safety, environmental and security standards.
The submarines that have already left Royal Navy service are stored safely and securely: 7 at Rosyth dockyard in Fife, Scotland and 13 at Devonport dockyard, Plymouth. The Ministry of Defence’s ( MOD) Submarine Dismantling Project ( SDP) is managed by the Submarine Delivery Agency ( SDA) and is responsible for dismantling 27 nuclear submarines 20 of which are decommissioned and have left service, while 7 currently continue to be operated by the Royal Navy.
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