Blaze at Britain's Nuclear Submarine Shipyard Sparks Concern

A fire at BAE Systems' shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, England, responsible for building nuclear submarines, led to two hospitalizations but posed no nuclear risk. The site, producing Astute and Dreadnought submarines, was evacuated, and nearby residents were advised to stay indoors. BAE has not commented on the incident.

A significant blaze is currently raging at BAE Systems' shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, northwest England. The facility, crucial to building Britain's new generation of nuclear submarines, is said to pose no nuclear risk despite the ongoing fire, as per statements from the local police on Wednesday.

According to Cumbria police, two individuals were hospitalized due to suspected smoke inhalation, with no additional casualties reported. The police confirmed that all other personnel were evacuated from the Devonshire Dock Hall facility and accounted for.

BAE's Barrow-in-Furness location is key to manufacturing the Royal Navy's Astute and Dreadnought submarines. The fire was reported at 12:44 am local time. BAE Systems has yet to respond to Reuters’ inquiries, while police have advised nearby residents to stay indoors as a precaution.

(With inputs from agencies.)