In the past seven years, more than 170 soldiers have been Royal Navywho serve in the highly sensitive submarine fleet, fail drug tests. This is reported by the Telegraph.

A total of 175 submarine soldiers tested positive. Among other things cocainecannabis, ecstasy and steroids. Sedatives such as benzodiazepines have also been detected.

Delicate cases in the middle of operations

In 52 cases, those affected were actively deployed on a submarine when they were discovered. Twelve cases were registered in 2024 alone, according to the Telegraph report.

The Ministry of Defense emphasizes that it is pursuing a strict zero-tolerance policy. Almost all those affected have been released. In individual cases, however, there were extenuating circumstances, such as when soldiers did not know that a substance was banned.

Nuclear submarines with nuclear explosive power

The dimensions of the scandal become clear when you look at the locations. Some of the soldiers worked on the British Vanguard submarines.

These carry Trident-2 nuclear missiles, the country’s central nuclear deterrent system. At least one of these boats is always in use.

Officially it is said that no drugs were found on board during searches. But the positive tests alone raise significant safety concerns.

Expert warns: “No place for drugs”

Former military intelligence officer Philip Ingram has clear words:
“There is no place for drugs in our armed forces – and certainly not in sensitive areas such as the submarine service.”

He also warns of an additional risk. Drug use makes soldiers more vulnerable to blackmail. At the same time, he explains that the numbers also reflect social developments. Soldiers would be under enormous pressure and, like many civilians, would succumb to temptation.

Pressure, boredom and dangerous consequences

Former commanders see structural problems. Former submarine captain Ryan Ramsey says he’s “not shocked” but disappointed. It is probably a symptom of increasing pressure and frustration.

He explains that extended deployments and periods when boats remain in port can lead to boredom. At the same time he warns of the consequences. The loss of specially trained personnel has a significant “knock-on effect”. The burden on the remaining crew increases significantly.