A new engineering hub has opened in Bristol to support Britain’s nuclear submarine patrols. The Submarine Availability Support Hub (SASH) has created 100 jobs and will also provide placements for engineering students.
The Ministry of Defence says the state of the art facility will enable the Defence Nuclear Enterprise – the partnership of organisations that operate and maintain the UK’s nuclear deterrent – to work together more seamlessly with defence company Babcock and other contractors. It said they will use ‘cutting-edge digital and learning tools’, bringing together technical and engineering expertise.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, officially opened the SASH this week. She said: “It was a privilege to open the new Babcock Submarine Availability Support Hub in Bristol, and to have the opportunity to speak with civilian colleagues and Navy personnel alike.
“The investment in this new facility is another demonstration of the government’s commitment to making defence an engine for growth. This brand new facility will benefit the UK’s nuclear deterrent, which safeguards our security, and bolsters our country’s prosperity.”
Submarine Delivery Agency, CEO Sir Chris Gardner KBE said: “The opening of the Submarine Availability Support Hub in Bristol provides a collaborative space that will support submarine availability for the Royal Navy in defence of our nation. This innovative facility is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to the UK’s nuclear enterprise.
“It offers a dedicated space for the Submarine Delivery Agency and Babcock to undertake vital joint work which will support waterfront operations, as well as presenting an opportunity to develop future talent by providing placement roles for engineering students.”
The SASH will support waterfront operations at Clyde in Scotland and Devonport i9n Plymouth, where the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet is based.