A Brief Outline of Royal Navy Vessel and Flight Deck Surcoat Colours

Introduction This post gives a brief outline of the surcoat colours used on Royal Navy vessels. Royal Navy Surcoats and Surface Vessel Duties Surcoat Colour(s) Duty Red and White Stripes Rating in charge of the Main Group Red Main Group (with the exception of the Breathing Apparatus Controller) Yellow Breath Apparatus Controllers Blue Containment Party… Read More

How Does the Royal Navy Name its Ships?

Introduction The names for a new ship or a class of ship are initially proposed by the Royal Navy’s Ships’ Names and Badges Committee (SNBC). Considerations In considering any name, the SNBC takes into account many aspects including: Who Makes the Decision? The SNBC presents their recommendations to the Navy Board and the name(s) chosen… Read More

What is the Naval Outdoor Centre Germany?

Introduction The Naval Outdoor Centre Germany (NOCG) is the Royal Navy’s adventurous and challenging activities centre situated in the beautiful Allgäu area of Bavaria, Germany. What is the Aim of NOCG? NOCG’s aim is to deliver Naval Service members (Royal Navy (RN) and Royal Marines (RM)) an opportunity to participate in adventurous activities that are… Read More

Will Testosterone Replacement Therapy Stop Me Joining the Royal Navy?

Introduction “The use of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be a bar to pre-Service entry, but it would depend on the underlying reason.” Navy Command goes on to state “Each case would be considered on its own merits against current medical entry standards. Refer to JSP 950 Medical Policy – Leaflet 6-7-7: Joint Service Manual… Read More

What was the Destroyers-for-Bases Deal?

Introduction The destroyers-for-bases deal was an agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom on 02 September 1940, during World War II, according to which 50 Caldwell, Wickes, and Clemson-class US Navy destroyers were transferred to the Royal Navy from the US Navy in exchange for land rights on British possessions. Generally referred to… Read More

What is the Defence Aptitude Assessment (UK)?

Introduction The Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) is an essential part of the process for joining the UK military. Several tests form the DAA, and they are recognised as strong indicators for in-job performance at all ranks, and across all jobs/roles. What is the DAA? When Was the DAA Introduced? Who Has to Take the DAA?… Read More

All Four Major RN Naval Training Establishments now have Female Commanding Officers

History has been made as all four of the Royal Navy’s major training establishments are under the command of women for the first time ever. Captain Johanna ‘Jo’ Deakin has assumed command of HMS Sultan in Gosport, the home of Royal Navy Marine and Air Engineering, and becomes the establishment’s first female Commanding Officer. The… Read More