Australia has launched its first sovereign submarine commander training program, with two Royal Australian Navy submariners passing the inaugural course.
The international-standard Australian Submarine Command Course culminated in a sea-phase that tested participants in undersea and special warfare scenarios.
Prior to the launch of the course, Australian submarine Commanding Officers had been trained in the UK with the Royal Navy, and then by the Royal Netherlands Navy.
The inaugural training course was hosted by Collins-class submarine HMAS Sheean.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh said the home-grown capability would better meet Australia’s evolving workforce needs.
“I congratulate the newly qualified submarine commanders for passing the demanding course,” minister Keogh said.
“The men and women of the Australian Defence Force are our most important capability, so upskilling them to meet our current and future needs is critical.
“Our Navy can’t wait until new capabilities are ready to train the next generation of leaders – these commanders must be fully equipped for when the submarines enter into service.”
The locally designed and delivered Australian Submarine Command Course is one example of how the Navy is evolving to meet workforce growth targets.
“By delivering the course in Australia, the Navy can determine the timing and content of the course and optimize it to meet our requirements,” Minister Keogh said.
