Q&A · 1:10:11-1:10:50

Where Trident could move after Scottish independence

A basing comparison among Wales, Cornwall, and the Falkland Islands if the Royal Navy lost access to its Scottish deterrent facilities.

Question

If Scotland became independent, where could Britain base Trident?

Short answer

Wales or Cornwall are the nearer options and the Falklands the remote one, but every relocation would be extremely expensive and slow.

Notes

Wales, Cornwall, and the Falkland Islands are the broad alternatives to Scottish basing. Wales is geographically closest but would require agreement with devolved government and extensive new facilities. Cornwall is more plausible geographically, yet concentrating still more Royal Navy infrastructure in the southwest creates strategic and political drawbacks. The Falklands could be secured but are remote and lack the population and support network needed for a major submarine base. Every option would be expensive and slow, which makes continued Scottish basing the least disruptive outcome.