Support the Petty Officer Of The Watch Navigation — Defence Awarding Organisation Occupational Qualification Public Services Revision
This subtopic equips learners with the skills to assist the Petty Officer of the Watch in navigation duties on a submarine, including radar operation, reco
Topic Synopsis
This subtopic equips learners with the skills to assist the Petty Officer of the Watch in navigation duties on a submarine, including radar operation, record-keeping, lookout duties, and emergency responses such as man overboard and surfacing/diving routines. Competence in these tasks is vital for maintaining safe navigation and operational effectiveness in submarine environments.
Key Concepts & Core Principles
- Sonar Data Interpretation: Understanding how to read and analyse passive and active sonar returns to identify contacts, including range, bearing, and classification.
- Acoustic Classification: Differentiating between biological, geological, and man-made sounds using spectral analysis and signature libraries.
- Data Management: Using software tools to log, store, and retrieve sensor data in compliance with security protocols.
- Tactical Picture Compilation: Integrating data from multiple sources (sonar, radar, ESM) to build a coherent operational picture for the command team.
- Reporting Procedures: Producing clear, concise reports and verbal briefs that adhere to naval standards and timelines.
Exam Tips & Revision Strategies
- Familiarize yourself with the radar console layout through repeated hands-on practice; during assessment, verbalize each adjustment to evidence deliberate action.
- Adopt a routine of documenting navigation data immediately as events occur; use a checklist to ensure no mandatory fields are omitted.
- For lookout duties, practice verbal reporting with clarity and brevity; use a standard format (e.g., 'Green 45, contact bearing 090, range 2 miles') to show competence.
- Rehearse the MOB drill until it becomes second nature; remember the mnemonic 'Shout, Throw, Mark, Keep' to sequence actions correctly under pressure.
Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid
- Misconfiguring radar controls, such as incorrect gain or sea clutter settings, which can obscure small contacts or create false targets.
- Neglecting to update the navigation log continuously, leading to gaps in the record that could compromise navigational audits.
- During lookout, focusing too narrowly on one sector and failing to scan the entire assigned arc, resulting in missed contacts.
- In MOB drills, hesitating or performing steps out of sequence, such as throwing flotation before raising the alarm, which delays the coordinated response.
Examiner Marking Points
- Award credit for demonstrating accurate radar setup by selecting appropriate range scales, tuning controls, and interpreting display information correctly to identify navigation hazards.
- Award credit for maintaining complete and legible navigation records, including positional logs and event entries, in accordance with standard operating procedures without prompting.
- Award credit for performing bridge lookout duties by systematically scanning the environment, reporting all contacts promptly, and using prescribed communication protocols.
- Award credit for reacting to a man overboard situation by immediately raising the alarm, throwing flotation aids, marking the position, and keeping the person in sight throughout the drill.