Rolls-Royce nuclear reactors to power Australian submarines

Rolls-Royce is to create thousands of jobs after securing a contract to provide the reactors for Australia’s first nuclear powered submarines.

The contract is part of the AUKUS trilateral agreement between Australia, the UK and the US announced on Monday.

Rolls-Royce Submarines, which is based in Raynesway, Derby, currently employs more than 4,000 people and designs, manufactures and provides in-service support to the pressurised water reactors that power every boat in the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet.

According to the firm, the Australian contract will see thousands of jobs created at Rolls-Royce and across its UK supply chain.

Steve Carlier, president of Rolls-Royce Submarines, said: “We are delighted to be asked to play our part in delivering this element of the AUKUS agreement and are well prepared to support through our nuclear expertise and engineering excellence.

“For over 60 years we have provided the power to the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines, and we are proud to be playing a critical role in helping Australia acquire their own nuclear propulsion submarine capability.

“This is great news for Rolls-Royce and for the country as a whole with the creation of more UK jobs and an opportunity to showcase British innovation and expertise on the world stage.”

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