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Chief of Naval Personnel Highlights Training at Surface Warfare Symposium

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110119-08
1/19/2011

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The chief of naval personnel (CNP) described the future of surface warfare training and explained how changes would impact the Fleet, during a speech at the Surface Navy Association's 23rd National Symposium in Arlington, Va., Jan. 12.

"As the surface Navy moves towards DDG-1000, LPD-17, and two variants of LCS, I see training as a major challenge needing to be addressed," said CNP Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson. "For the future fleet, we are going to have to think how we buy, size and use the simulation capabilities available in industry to keep up crew readiness."

Simulators have been a part of Navy training for many years, but are taking on greater significance as naval systems grow more complex and simulators improve to provide more realistic simulations.

Exemplifying this shift, the shore-based training for the new variants of the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) will be provided predominately by simulators designed to replicate the basic layout and design of the LCS command and control, bridge, and propulsion control systems. By utilizing this simulation training model, LCS Sailors will report aboard ready to stand their watch and execute assigned duties.

"We also have found that we need to restore training closer to the waterfront," said Ferguson. "We are looking to see how to deliver more training that is closer and broken down to modules for delivery."

Drawing similarities to adult education models, the chief of naval personnel explained the goal of providing advanced technical training that is more accessible to operational units. This will allow commanding officers to train their Sailors, while reducing impact to inspection cycles and underway periods.

Concluding his remarks on training by explaining the impact of technology, Ferguson described the results of a recent assessment.

"In the future, 75 percent of our recruits will have to be in the upper-half of ASVAB scores to man the equipment, ships and aircraft," said Ferguson. "The need for strong technical skills is shaping how we look at recruiting and how we invest in education."