Blaze Erupts at BAE Systems Shipyard Housing UK's Nuclear Submarine Production

A major blaze at BAE Systems' shipyard, responsible for building Britain's nuclear submarines, caused smoke inhalation for two individuals but posed no nuclear threat. Emergency services have controlled the incident, advising local residents to stay indoors. BAE Systems shares traded down, reflecting the incident's impact.

A major fire erupted in the early morning hours at the BAE Systems shipyard where Britain's nuclear submarines are constructed, according to police reports on Wednesday. Though the fire posed no nuclear hazard, online images depicted flames and thick smoke billowing from the Devonshire Dock Hall.

Cumbria police confirmed that two individuals were hospitalized due to suspected smoke inhalation but no other injuries were reported. Authorities advised nearby residents to stay indoors with closed windows and doors as emergency teams tackled the situation. In response, BAE Systems shares fell by 1.7% during early trading.

The emergency call to the site came at 0044 GMT. BAE Systems, the UK's largest defense contractor, collaborated with emergency services to manage the fire. One of the hospitalized individuals has since been released. The Devonshire Dock Hall area was evacuated with all persons accounted for as the shipyard remains a significant naval production site, employing around 10,000 people for submarine construction.

(With inputs from agencies.)