First submariners assigned to UK nuclear submarines

Following their completion of the Officers Nuclear Operator Course and Engineering Administration Course, the first three Royal Australian Navy officers have graduated from the Royal Navy’s Nuclear Reactor Course in the United Kingdom.

Lieutenant Commander James, Lieutenant Stephen and Lieutenant Isabella have come to the end of their shore-based requirements as part of the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine training programme in Hampshire.

The three will now begin practical training, deploying alongside Royal Navy sailors, in the UK Astute-class submarines based at His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde in Faslane, Scotland.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammondsaid: “I am incredibly proud of all three of our remarkable officers for their achievements and especially acknowledge Lieutenant Isabella who was awarded Dux of the graduating class.

“This demonstrates the exceptional skillset and knowledge of our people undertaking this unique training from the Royal Navy – a long-standing partner and friend to the Royal Australian Navy.

“The graduation marks another significant step forward for the Royal Australian Navy’s ability to operate, maintain and support Australia’s future nuclear-powered submarine capability.”

Skills at all levels are critical to the success of Australia’s nuclear submarine acquisition, manufacture and in service plans.

The first 30 of ASC Pty Ltd workers have deployed to the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard to learn maintenance of US Virginia class nuclear‑powered submarines.

The qualification enables the officers to undertake their general submarine qualification and complete their engineer officer of watch training, while also learning the fundamentals of operating nuclear-powered submarines.

Director-General Australian Submarine Agency Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead said: “The incredible training opportunities we are accessing through our AUKUS partners will ensure we can safely operate and maintain our sovereign fleet of nuclear-powered submarines.”

Further reading:
Submarine workers leave for for Pearl Harbor AUKUS training

Picture: Defence/LPhot Edward Jones/Second Sea Lord of the Royal Navy, Vice Admiral Martin Connell speaking with Royal Australian Navy officer Lieutenant James at the passing out parade for nuclear submarine students at HMS Sultan