Britain’s nuclear submarine crews are training to fight drones using water
Fire hoses provide emergency protection when drones breach naval security
Each Vanguard submarine costs approximately £4 billion despite its basic defences
British sailors are receiving training to repel hostile drones using powerful water jets aboard nuclear submarines stationed at a naval installation in Scotland. The unconventional approach provides a relatively inexpensive and environmentally friendly defensive option for vessels facing potential aerial attacks while docked or operating above water. A report from The Sun , the equipment serves as an emergency measure when incoming drones penetrate existing security arrangements around Britain’s nuclear deterrent. High-pressure water jets provide final protection
The Royal Navy has equipped its Vanguard-class submarines with firefighting hoses capable of directing concentrated streams of water toward approaching unmanned aircraft. These devices feature handheld nozzles with pistol-style controls, allowing sailors to aim pressurised water at airborne threats approaching their vessels. During an attack, sailors would direct powerful water jets at small and medium-sized FPV drones, attempting to knock them down or divert their flight paths. The hoses are deployed aboard submarines stationed at HMNB Clyde; the Scottish naval installation responsible for accommodating Britain’s nuclear deterrent fleet. Unlike conventional air defence systems, the hoses cannot detect or automatically track incoming drones. A naval source acknowledged the limitations of relying on firefighting equipment against airborne threats. But when in a dire situation, “you have to use what you’ve got,” said an unnamed Royal Navy source…