Hydro Group has been awarded a contract by BAE Systems to deliver submarine system requirements for integration onto the UK Royal Navy’s Successor-class submarines, which will replace the ageing Vanguard-class fleet of nuclear submarines.
Under the two year, £2m contract, the company will design, develop and install a range of connectorised-through-hull penetrators.
Hydro Group sales director Graham Wilkie said: "This contract is a significant step for Hydro Group, and reinforces the company’s 25-year commitment to supporting submarine system requirements.
"The project will engage a dedicated team of Hydro Group engineers specialised in the design and development of harsh environment underwater connection systems."
The company’s solutions are built to withstand the harshest environmental conditions, including salt water, shock, extreme temperature cycling and vibration, according to Naval Today.
BAE Systems Maritime-Submarines supply chain director Malcolm Dare said: "Facing strong and established competitors, Hydro Group offered a highly innovative and cost-effective penetrator solution for our project.
"Experience of working within a harsh user environment, combined with fresh ideas, saw Hydro Group emerge as favourites from a stringent down-selection process.
"This complete design and manufacture package will now lead UK submarines well into the next decade."
Powered by PWR3 nuclear reactors, Successor-class vessels will replace the UK’s nuclear deterrent after the anticipated retirement of the Vanguard-class by 2028.
