UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is unveiling an ambitious £200 million ($252 million) investment plan aimed at bolstering the nation’s nuclear capabilities, both for defense and energy purposes. The funding is part of a broader “national endeavor” to secure the future of Britain’s nuclear submarine production and civil nuclear power industry.
In a speech on Monday, Sunak will argue that this injection of resources is vital given the increasingly “dangerous and contested world” the UK faces on the global stage. He is expected to highlight the indispensable role of the country’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent in protecting national security interests.
“In a more dangerous and contested world, the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent is more vital than ever,” Sunak will say, according to excerpts of his remarks released by his office. “And nuclear delivers cheaper, cleaner home-grown energy for consumers.”
The bulk of the £200 million will be funneled into the northwestern town of Barrow-in-Furness, which has long been the hub of Britain’s submarine manufacturing activities. The funds will support the creation of an estimated 40,000 new jobs in the area and improve infrastructure like housing and transportation links.
The investment is intended to ensure Barrow remains a world-class center for developing and maintaining the UK’s fleet of nuclear-armed submarines. With the advent of the AUKUS defense pact, under which Britain and the US are assisting Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered subs, demand for Barrow’s specialized skills is expected to surge.
But Sunak’s “national endeavor” goes beyond just nuclear deterrence. A significant portion of the funding will be directed towards expanding the UK’s civil nuclear energy capabilities as the government aims to achieve its targets for greater reliance on this form of low-carbon power generation.
“That’s why we are investing in Barrow, the home of UK submarines, and in the jobs and skills of the future in the thriving British nuclear industry,” Sunak will declare. “Today we usher in the next generation of our nuclear enterprise, which will keep us safe, keep our energy secure, and keep our bills down for good.”
The government statement indicates it will collaborate closely with key industry players like BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, EDF, and Babcock. Collectively, these companies have committed to invest at least £763 million ($962 million) by 2030 in nuclear skills development, job creation, and educational initiatives.
According to official projections, the UK’s nuclear sector is entering “an unprecedented period of growth” fueled by rising demand for both defense and civil applications. To meet staffing needs, the industry will require an influx of 123,000 new workers over the next seven years.
Sunak’s nuclear investment push underscores his government’s recognition of the strategic importance of this dual-use technology for national security and energy independence. By shoring up indigenous capabilities, the Prime Minister aims to position Britain as a globally competitive nuclear power for decades to come.