Steel cutting for these next generation attack submarines began in 1999 and the keel of the first of class Astute was laid in the Devonshire Dock Hall in January 2001. Launching of the 7200-tonne submarine by shiplift is scheduled for year 2004 followed by an intensive 18-month whole boat trials and acceptance programme. The shipyard is committed to making best use of its advanced build methodology, procurement, production and integration initiatives. An example of this is the application of ultrasound weld scanning techniques to replace the traditional X-ray method. And by maximising sub systems testing at the module stage during the build programme, BAE SYSTEMS Marine hopes to advance the in-service date to 2005.
Construction work on the second and third boats of the Class, Ambush and Artful will be started progressively in the Build Hall as units of the surface ship LPD02 are transported out of the hall to the superberth.
In the lead up to 2001, the MoD Defence Procurement Agency Attack Project Team worked closely with the Director Equipment Capability (Under Water Battlespace) and Prime Contractor BAE SYSTEMS Astute Class Limited. Subject to MoD approval, they will also be the Prime Contractor for the anticipated second buy of three further Astute Class boats which will maintain the Royal Navy's attack submarine force level at ten. The contract for the second buy is expected to be placed in late 2002 and BAE SYSTEMS Marine will be ready to accept the challenge thus maintaining and strengthening the partnership between its Barrow shipyard, the MoD and the Royal Navy in the 21st century.
