Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:18:53-2:19:17

Perisher needs a command step after the course

The demanding Perisher course selects submarine commanders, but a cheaper diesel-electric boat could provide independent sea-command experience before an officer receives an SSN.

Command at SeaDiesel Electric SubmarinesNaval TrainingNuclear SubmarinesOfficer DevelopmentPerisher CourseSubmarine CommandSubmarine Command Course
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Question

Does the Perisher course remove the need for cheaper submarines as command-development platforms?

Short answer

No. Perisher is an excellent selection course, but successful officers would still benefit from commanding an SSK before taking responsibility for an SSN.

Notes

The Royal Navy's Perisher course is a formidable test for prospective submarine commanders. The next step remains difficult in a small all-nuclear fleet, where the first independent command may be an exceptionally expensive and strategically important SSN. Passing a selection course does not provide the same experience as taking a boat to sea under independent command. A diesel-electric submarine could provide several patrols of real command experience before an officer advances to the nuclear boat.