Rolls-Royce Submarines and global technology company Siemens have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on digital optimization and boost efficiency across engineering.
The agreement, signed at the Defence & Security Equipment International (DSEI) event in London in September, marks a significant milestone in a 25-year partnership between the two companies. The collaboration aims to reduce production times, costs, and risks for Rolls-Royce’s submarine technologies.
Under the MoU, Siemens will provide its expertise and technology through the Siemens Xcelerator open business innovation platform, which integrates software and hardware solutions to accelerate innovation, improve productivity, and enhance operational efficiency.
The partnership will focus on creating a “digital backbone” for Rolls-Royce Submarines — a system designed to connect the full lifecycle of its pressurised water reactors that power every boat in the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet.
“Harnessing the power of digital, and collaborating with global experts such as Siemens, will make us more efficient and ultimately provide an enhanced service to the Royal Navy by getting submarines in the sea quicker and accelerating the maintenance of those already in service,” said Lee Warren , Engineering & Technology Director at Rolls-Royce Submarines.
Adam Raine , IT and Digital Director at Rolls-Royce Submarines, added: “This collaboration will further enhance our capabilities in the digital space and unlock key improvements in how we deliver on our commitments.”
Siemens executives emphasised the strategic importance of the agreement in addressing complex industrial and defence challenges.
“The agreement strengthens and formalises a 25-year long Siemens and Rolls-Royce relationship,” said Brian Holliday , Managing Director of Siemens Digital Industries UK and Ireland.
“As technology and the external environment develop at pace, closer collaboration and best-practice sharing are essential.”
The partnership will also foster digital skills development across engineering, manufacturing, R&D, training, and reactor maintenance.
Currently, Rolls-Royce Submarines supports the Astute and Dreadnought-class submarine programs, delivering nuclear reactor plants and components, and providing frontline support for in-service submarines from its Operations Centre in Derby.
The new MoU with Siemens is expected to accelerate delivery timelines for these critical defense programs while laying the groundwork for future digitalised manufacturing across the UK.