The final of a planned seven Royal Navy nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) is now under construction at BAE Systems’ facilities in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, England, with plans for the boat to enter service by early 2029. Even as the program is nearing its completion, the lead vessel of the Astute-class of hunter-killer subs, known as “A-boats,” is preparing for a “mid-life revamp” after 15 years of continuous service.

HMS Astute has completed the “longest first commission in the history of the Silent Service,” the Royal Navy announced, adding that the boat will “be handed over to the team at Babcock,” the shipbuilder that is also overseeing the refit of the service’s Vanguard-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).

The mid-life re-validation period (MLRP) is expected to last several years. During that time, the submarine will be partially dismantled, allowing the boat to receive upgrades to the nuclear reactor, combat systems, and even structural components. However, the boat’s........

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