Houston Do We Have A Problem ? – both the Guardian and the Daily Telegraph (so it must be true) have reported the apparent problems of the new Fleet Submarine ASTUTE which is still on “Sea Trials”.     The issues that have come to light are all being addressed and it is said that this is all normal and expected for first of class trials.   However the media made a number of separate claims about ASTUTE:-

•       The lead used for reactor instrumentation was not of sufficient quality – to which the MoD stated that the full assessment concluded that the material has no effect on the accuracy of any readings and no impact on the submarine's operation.

•       There was incorrect installation of electronic switchboards – to which the MoD stated that the work of rectification has been completed and conforms to naval engineering standards.

•       Failure following the flooding incident during trials last year due to a leak - to which the MoD stated that an investigation found one small part which had not been made of the correct material and which had corroded. A replacement was fitted at sea and the submarine continued with the trials - the ingress of water was in the order of tens of litres.

•       The subject of an apparent propulsion problem affecting the speed of the ASTUTE met with an MoD frosty “The MOD does not discuss submarine propulsion or speeds”.

•       Corrosion problems on both the ASTUTE and sister ship AMBUSH (also on trials) - to which the MoD states the obvious that all Royal Navy submarines are subject to a continuous, thorough assessment of their components to minimise the risk of corrosion.    Apparently the cause for concern was the cosmetic problems with the paint finish inside the submarines which has been identified and rectified.

All of which might be expected as part and parcel of ship construction to a high order EXCEPT the mention of the propulsion problem.       One source quoted by the media likened the problem to that of having “a V8 engine with a Morris Minor Gearbox” – if true that is a design fault and not so easy (or quickly) able to be rectified.   The Nation awaits the truth, and may have to wait a very long time!