TWO classes of Royal Navy submariner trainees recently passed-out from the first phase of their Submarine Qualifying Course (SMQ) at HM Naval Base Clyde.
The two groups of students – being trained for service on board Vanguard and Astute Class submarines – reached the culmination of their ten-week “dry phase”, the classroom part of the course conducted on dry land at Clyde’s Fleet Operational Standards and Training (Submarines) (FOST)(SM).
Naval Base Commander, Commodore Sharon Malkin, presented each student with their certificates in the HMS Neptune Supermess.
There were 19 students completing the Vanguard Class course with 13 qualifying for the Astute Class, each of them delighted to have reached this milestone in their training. As well as their certificates, each submariner trainee received the much-coveted HM Submarine cap tally.
Naval Base Commander, Commodore Sharon Malkin said: “It was a privilege to present both classes with their HM Submarines Cap Tallies as they complete ‘Dry Phase’ training and continue their journey in the Submarine Service. This is an important first step for them on their road to becoming fully fledged Submariners and each should be proud of their achievements to date.”
There are more than 100 roles to choose from in the Royal Navy, with the Submarine Qualifying Course providing future submariners with the knowledge essential for joining their first Royal Navy submarine. The course instils the absolute professionalism demanded by the Submarine Service with trainees required to demonstrate an intimate understanding of more than 30 complex engineering systems which operate the nuclear submarines and keep the crew safe.
One of the youngest students, Engineering Technician (Marine Engineering) Bailey said: “I found the Submarine Qualifying Course very challenging but also very enjoyable. Today was a great achievement for me and I am happy to have passed the course. I am now looking forward to starting the next part of my career and qualifying as a submariner and receiving my dolphins.”
In addition to the presentation to students, Leading Hand Supply Chain (LSC) Lockyear, an instructor at SMQ, was presented with his Long Service and Good Conduct (LS&GC) medal in recognition of 15 years of service.
Commodore Malkin continued: “I was also able to present the LS&GC to LSC Lockyear. The award is given for 15 years unblemished service in the Armed Forces, and it was evident that LSC Lockyear has contributed significantly in both the submarine operational and support environments, as well as setting a fine example whilst supporting and leading the trainees in his current role.”
Prospective submariners join FOST (SM) at HM Naval Base Clyde for the “dry phase” of their training. After successfully completing this, the second phase of training begins – known as the “wet phase”. Students complete their SMQ training at sea on board a Royal Navy submarine and it is only then that they are entitled to wear the coveted “dolphins” badge – the mark of a qualified submariner.
Original article found here…(2) HM Naval Base Clyde | Helensburgh | Facebook
