VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Astute Class Submarines

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 23307

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority Major Projects Annual Report 2025 to 2026, Tables, Astute Boats 1-7, whether delays have impacted the in-water phase for Boat 6.

Answered by Ministry of Defence

In September 2025, the sixth Astute Class submarine, HMS AGAMEMNON was commissioned into the Royal Navy and is undertaking the final stages of her in-water commissioning, before a handover to the Royal Navy to undertake sea trials.

Achilles, the seventh and last boat of the class, remains at an advanced stage of build in Barrow-in-Furness and work to recover from the impact of the fire in the Devonshire Dock Hall is progressing well.

The planned in-service dates for Royal Navy submarines are withheld as disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness, or security of the Armed Forces.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim