A Royal Navy submarine armed with Trident nuclear missiles has suffered a major malfunction, forcing it towards its crush depth while on patrol in the Atlantic Ocean. The Vanguard class submarine, carrying 140 crew members, had its depth gauge fail unexpectedly, resulting in the sub descending deeper into the ocean.
Frantic efforts by engineers aboard managed to halt the submarine and its nuclear reactor from further descent moments before a potential catastrophe. The emergency arose when the submarine’s depth indicators ceased to function, leading the crew to mistakenly believe they were at a safe level.
The incident immediately triggered an investigation. According to unnamed sources, it did not affect the UK’s nuclear deterrent. Details about which of the four Vanguard Class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines was involved have not been released. The incident has highlighted the ongoing operational demands on these submarines, which have been on patrol carrying nuclear missiles since 1969, ready to respond to a sudden attack.
“Our submarines continue to meet their commitments, deploying globally on operations, protecting national interests, and keeping us and our allies safe. While we do not comment on specific details regarding submarine operations, safety of our personnel is always the highest priority,” said Royal Navy spokesman following the incident.
