The Astute-class was the first nuclear submarine in the world to be designed in a 3D computer-aided environment. These submarines may not be as well known as their American or even Russian counterparts. However, they are among some of the best on Earth. 

Meet the Astute-Class

Indeed, the boats have been outfitted with many technological firsts, including not having an optical periscope.

Instead, high-specification video technology has been employed, which enables the crew to scan the horizon and get a 360-degree view to address any potential threat.

In addition, unlike other nuclear-powered submarines, the Astute-class was developed to utilize state-of-the-art anti-acoustic tiles. Each hull is fitted with more than 39,000 acoustic tiles that mask the vessel’s sonar signature and allow the submarines to glide through the water almost silently.

The little noise the boats give off has actually been compared to that of a "baby dolphin." 

Each of the submarines costs a reported £1.6 billion to build, but the capabilities offered are essentially priceless.

Straight "A" Submarines

Each of the Astute-class boats is roughly 97 meters (318 feet) in length and has a crew of around 100 sailors, with a capacity for 109.

The attack submarines are powered by a Rolls-Royce PWR2 (Core H) reactor and fitted with a pump-jet propulsor, the same reactor that was developed for the Royal Navy's Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines.

That particular nuclear reactor, which powers the submarines and has a 25-year lifespan before needing to be refueled, is also used to recycle air and water.

It provides a theoretically unlimited endurance for the submarine and could circumnavigate the globe without surfacing. Each of the boats is typically supplied with about 90 days of food.

The Astute-class submarines have stowage for 38 weapons and typically carry a mix of Spearfish heavy torpedoes and Tomahawk Block IV cruise missiles, which are capable of hitting a target to within a few meters, to a range of 1,000 miles (1,600 km). The submarines' countermeasures suite includes decoys and electronic support measures (ESM).

The boats are also fitted with a dry deck shelter, which allows Special Forces – such as the Royal Marine Commandos or Royal Navy Special Boat Service (SBS) operators to deploy whilst the submarine is submerged.

These submarines certainly get straight A's for their capabilities.

About the Author

Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer who has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers and websites. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes.

All images are Creative Commons.