- Today's modern submarines are roughly 350 feet long by 30 feet wide. Contained in this compact environment are crew, technology, food, power plant, and everything needed to survive for six months without contact from the outside world. A submariner must be non-claustrophobic to exist peacefully in this cramped underwater container. The crew must possess a high degree of personal physical fitness, and be able to be relied upon and work well as members of the team. Submarine officers must have a character which is trustworthy and commands authority.
- Nuclear powered submarines are one of the most advanced technological vehicles in the world. Officers and crew must understand the operation of a nuclear power plant. Crew must monitor and do maintenance on the nuclear reactor and related technology, including electronics, fire control and machinist skills.
- The eyes and ears of a nuclear submarine are the vessel's sonar and radar systems. Pilots use the radar guidance system and sonar listening systems to interpret and navigate the underwater landscape which they cannot see. Sonar and radar are also used in combat to define targets and avoid enemy vessels.
- Partner skills to radar and sonar operation, mariner and navigation skills allow the crew to guide the ship around the world, and under polar ice caps without surfacing. Even with the availability of current GPS technology, submarine crews must be able to navigate based on direction of travel, speed in the water, and traditional mariner skills in order to accurately navigate the submarine.
- Putting all the technology and electronics aside, the submarine is a collection of hydraulic, and pneumatic systems working together to create a safe environment for officers and crew. Plumbing skills, pipe fitting skills, understanding of hydroelectric plant, heating and ventilation systems training, are also part of the job. Compressors and electric motors compose the backbone of a modern submarine and each system must be regularly checked and maintained.
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