HMNB Devonport, the largest naval base in Western Europe, is scheduled to receive £7.1 billion for significant upgrades and new infrastructure. This investment forms part of the government's £26 billion Royal Oak programme, a ten-year initiative to modernise UK naval infrastructure, marking the largest such programme since the Cold War.
The funding is intended to bolster Devonport as a warfighting-ready facility, improving Royal Navy readiness, availability, and lethality. It is also expected to support thousands of skilled jobs in the Southwest of England.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting visited HMNB Devonport to observe Navy innovation and facilities under construction. Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport and Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, stated that the investment in submarine capability and the arrival of the Type 26 fleet will ensure Devonport remains vital for defence, jobs, and skills in Plymouth.
Additionally, £50 million in defence investment is being directed to Plymouth and the South West through the Plymouth Growth Deal. This aims to facilitate innovation for defence businesses, create hundreds of new skilled jobs, and increase regional investment, reinforcing Plymouth's role in maritime autonomy.