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Astute Promotion
May 12, 2007: Britain is pitching its new Astute
class SSNs (nuclear attack submarine) as the quietist and most lethal in the
world. The 7,200 ton boats are 323 feet long and carry a crew of 98. The
Astutes are more spacious than previous British SSNs, and every sailor will
have his own bunk, and more space in general. Sensors are of generally the same
quality as those found in American boats, but the British, as in the past, have
put more emphasis on silencing. Just how effective these efforts have been
won't be known until the Astute puts to sea in two years time. These boats cost
$2.5 billion each (about 50 percent over the original budget), and are three
years late. Only three have been ordered so far, and the navy is hoping to get
four more. The Astute is to be launched next month. Most existing British SSNs
will be retired in the next ten years. The Royal Navy is making a big public
relations splash over the launching of the Astute, and its capabilities. This
isn't about pride, but about getting public opinion, and members of parliament,
behind paying for more Astute class boats.
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