A call from the deep
Try out life as a submariner

MEMBERS of the Army interested in becoming submariners can test the waters first.

The Enhanced Selection Process conducted by Training Authority – Submarines, is hosting an obligation- free five-day course at HMAS Stirling, at the Submarine Training and Systems Centre.

Those considering a submarine career will be posted to the STSC and over the five days they will be provided with a variety of briefs and tours plus a general insight on the work and lifestyle of a Collins class submariner.

ESP courses will be conducted monthly and will include a showcase of activities such as a tour of a Collins submarine, a smoke walk at the Survivability School, a recompression chamber dive and water surface exercises at the Submarine Escape Training Facility.

Other processes include interviews and discussions with submariners and psychologists, a submarine suitability medical, plus comprehensive briefs on submarine categories duties, routines, security, conditions of service and submarine operations.

The benefits of the ESP are two-fold – prospective submariners can make an informed decision about a career in submarines and whether they are suitable and prepared to take the next step towards submarine training.

In turn, staff from Training Authority – Submarines are continuously able to assess at close range the suitability of a candidate for submarine service throughout the ESP and make an informed recommendation to service career managers.

Participating on the ESP is not a commitment to submarine service or an automatic transfer to the submarine arm but it does provide an “all round look” at a potentially exciting, demanding and professionally fulfilling career, which also pays well.

There are no costs involved to the participant as all ESP persons are provided with service accommodation, transport and all meals during the course.

Volunteers interested in an ESP should make their request through their Divisional system or OC then complete the criteria in accordance with DI(N) Pers 75-41 and arrange for DSCM or DNOP or appropriate service career agency to be notified.