What Is It Like to Board a US Navy Nuclear Submarine?

TL;DR

Boarding the USS Toledo, a Los Angeles-class nuclear submarine, reveals a unique experience focused on teamwork and continuous learning. The command structure includes the captain, executive officer, and chief of the boat, who all work together to manage operations. The integration of women into submarines is ongoing, with the crew dedicated to earning their dolphins qualification, demonstrating their skills and knowledge of the submarine's systems.

Transcript

DESTIN: (NARRATING) This is the USS Toledo, a U.S. Navy Los Angeles-class fast-attack nuclear submarine. We're about to get onboard. [HELICOPTER FLYING] Thank you. My name is Destin. Arnell. I'm the chief of the boat. You're the chief of the boat? Nice to meet you, Arnell. Absolutely, no problem. All right. Following you guys. --have to use this do... Read More

Key Insights

• 💨 The USS Toledo is a fast-attack nuclear submarine with a diverse crew of officers and enlisted personnel, each specializing in different areas.
• 🖐️ The COB plays a crucial role as the enlisted advisor and acts as a bridge between officers and enlisted personnel.
• 🧑‍🏫 Submariners constantly learn and teach, and the dolphins qualification signifies their expertise in every system on the boat.
• 🧔‍♀️ Women integration in submarines is a gradual process, starting with larger platforms and gradually extending to smaller subs.
• 🥶 Submariners face unique challenges operating under ice, where communication and visibility are limited.
• ❓ The command structure emphasizes trust and collaborative decision-making to ensure smooth operations.
• 🥡 Career progression in the Submarine Force involves continuous learning and taking on more responsibilities.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why were there only men on the USS Toledo?

The integration of women into the Submarine Force began around 10 years ago, starting with the largest platform, the Ohio class. Modifications are being made to accommodate men and women on different submarines, with the newer Virginia class being gender-neutral.

Q: What is the role of the chief of the boat?

The chief of the boat (COB) serves as the enlisted advisor, bridging the gap between officers and enlisted personnel. They handle people-related issues and ensure information reaches the captain for informed decision-making.

Q: How long does it take to earn dolphins qualification?

Enlisted personnel are required to earn their dolphins within 12 months, but most achieve it within six to eight months. Officers take longer, typically a year, as their qualification process includes additional requirements.

Q: Do officers teach enlisted personnel, and vice versa?

The submarine culture promotes learning and teaching. Officers are responsible for training junior enlisted and officers, while enlisted personnel also teach those below them, ensuring knowledge is passed down as people rotate on and off the boat.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The USS Toledo is a US Navy Los Angeles-class fast-attack nuclear submarine, with a crew of officers and enlisted personnel who specialize in various areas like torpedoes and engineering.

• The command structure comprises the captain, executive officer, and chief of the boat (COB) who bridge the gap between officers and enlisted personnel.

• The crew is dedicated to continuous learning and teaching, with every submariner aiming to earn their dolphins qualification, signifying their knowledge of every system on the boat.