Chance for more jobs at Rolls-Royce after nuclear submarine deal

More jobs could be announced at Rolls-Royce’s Derby factory after the UK Government announced a new deal to produce nuclear submarines.

The Daily Mail reports how a new alliance between the UK, the United States and Australia, known as AUKUS, will see the Derby engineering firm partner with BAE Systems, which is based in Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria, to build at least eight submarines.The Mail claims “hundreds of highly-skilled scientific and engineering roles in Britain” will be created by the move, with Boris Johnson saying hundreds could be established, but Rolls-Royce, which has its civil aerospace and nuclear divisions in Derby, said it was too early to speculate when approached by Derbyshire Live.

However, a spokesperson said: “We look forward to supporting the UK Government in the initial scoping phase for this new endeavour.”Rolls-Royce has been the sole provider of the nuclear power plant for the Royal Navy’s submarine Fleet for over 60 years and we are currently involved in manufacturing the nuclear plant for the new Dreadnought Class submarines.

“We are proud of the unique role we play in support of the UK’s national security.”

It is expected that the Midlands, the north and Scotland will feel the economic benefits of the new deal The Mail also reports how the new deal will see the three countries develop and build the submarines and several other new technologies both in Britain and in Australia, although it is unclear when they would be finished.If new jobs are to be created, they will help Australia become one of just a handful of nations to operate nuclear submarines, alongside the UK, France, China and Russia.

It is the latest jobs announcement at Rolls-Royce since June, when the company announced that hundreds of new jobs will be created by a move to develop electric aircraft.

It is likely that the new submarines will take inspiration from Britain’s Astute-class nuclear subs, whose power plants were designed and produced by Rolls-Royce at its Raynesway factory.Britain and Australia have increasingly worked together on defence matters, including by holding joint training exercises.The prime minister, Boris Johnson, said last night: “The UK, Australia and US are natural allies.

“While we may be separated geographically, our interests and values are shared. The AUKUS alliance will bring us closer than ever, creating a new defence partnership and driving jobs and prosperity.”