The UK waters will soon be patrolled by 12 new ‘apex predator’ attack submarines. The military’s weapon arsenal includes the secretive nuclear-powered and armed submarines, which only a select few will ever set foot in due to high-level security.

The UK will build "up to" 12 new attack submarines, the prime minister has announced, as the government unveils its major defence review on Monday. The new conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines will replace the seven-strong Astute class from the late 2030s onwards.