Civilian mechanics, naval reservists, and ships kept in ordinary

Clarke challenges the assumption that reservists could never work in a modern warship's engine room. He proposes using civilian mechanics' experience, naval courses, weekend training, and supervision by experienced chiefs. Another participant points to the computer systems already familiar to modern car mechanics. The work is considered trainable, with proper courses and supervision required. He also argues that narrow reserve roles discourage people who want to use engineering skills. His proposed nine-ship Type 45 force would keep six commissioned and three in ordinary, including refit periods, with nucleus crews and reservists supporting the additional hulls. He suggests those ships could also serve as local recruiting flagships.