Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:34:08-2:35:23

Trident missile continuity and shared support

The discussion envisages continued use of Trident missiles and describes shared British, French and American support arrangements as a way to reduce costs.

Nuclear DeterrenceSubmarine Launched Ballistic MissilesTrident MissileUK France Defence CooperationUK US Defence Cooperation
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Question

Does a programme already exist to replace the Royal Navy's Trident missiles?

Short answer

No separate missile successor is envisaged here. Continued Trident use is linked to the cost of an alternative and existing shared support arrangements.

Notes

A separate British successor to the Trident missile is not envisaged in this discussion. Continued use of Trident is linked to the expense of developing an alternative. Britain shares elements of nuclear-warhead maintenance work with France and missile procurement through a common pool with the United States. These arrangements are presented as ways to share costs, with replacing them expected to require substantial spending.