Job Details

Other Ranks (Non Technical)

Combat Systems Operator

Combat Systems Operators are responsible for the collection, correlation and dissemination of sensor information, in order to create an accurate and timely tactical picture that enables the Command to make sound tactical decisions. Sensors such as Radar and Sonar systems are used by the Combat Systems Operator to differentiate between Surface, Sub-Surface and Air threats in benign and multi threat environments.

Combat Systems Operators are an integral component of the Action Information Organisation (AIO) and as such, are required to operate an intricate array of Combat Data Systems and Command and Control Systems that communicate operational and administrative data within a task group or as part of a larger coalition task force. The equipment operated is complex and challenging for the Combat Systems Operator to master.

The Maritime Warfare environment encompasses an ever broadening range of skills requiring Combat Systems Operator Sailors to sub-specialise. All Combat Systems Operators undertake a core skills training component, which includes the operation of Combat Data Systems, radars, identification sensors, information displays and their associated equipment. Combat Systems Operators are then required to specialise in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) or Air Warfare, Tactical Data Links and Combat Data Systems, which are referred to as either Combat Systems Operators (Underwater) or Combat Systems Operators (Above Water).

During initial postings to sea, Combat Systems Operators will be employed as Surface Picture Operators, Air Picture Compilers, or Sonar Operators. As part of the Executive Department, the Combat Systems Operator is also required to be skilled in aspects of seamanship, small boats and small arms. Ancillary duties also include corrosion control, Force Protection and communal responsibilities.

Combat Systems Operator (Underwater) – Anti-Submarine Warfare

Anti-Submarine Warfare is a branch of Naval Warfare that uses Warships, Aircraft or other Submarines to detect, classify, track and prosecute enemy Submarines, if required. Anti-Submarine Warfare also involves protecting friendly ships operating in a hostile Submarine operating area.

Successful Anti-Submarine Warfare depends on Ships Sensor and Weapon capabilities but primarily depends on the training and experience level of personnel involved. Sophisticated Sonar equipment is used to detect, classify and track Submarines.

The Initial Combat Systems Operator (Underwater) course provides operators with the skills required to join a ship’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Team and confidently operate the Sonar equipment fitted. The equipment consists of both Active and Passive Sensors.

The Combat Systems Operator (Underwater) sailor will not only be taught how to operate the Sonar equipment, but also how to operate in, and exploit the extremely complicated below sea environment.

Combat Systems Operator (Above Water)

The Initial Combat Systems Operator (Above Water) course provides the skills required to join a ship's Surface and Air Warfare Team and confidently operate the ship's Combat Data System and the intricate array of Surface and Air sensors. The equipment consists of Surface and Air radars and a sophisticated Combat Data System, which the Combat Systems Operator (Above Water) uses to analyse the threat and provide the appropriate recommendations to the Command. This assists the Command in making tactical decisions in defending the ship against possible threats.

The Combat Systems Operator (Above Water) sailor will not only be taught how to operate the Above Water sensors and Combat Data Systems equipment, but also how to operate, exploit, and defend in an extremely complicated surface and air warfare environment.

The basic functions of the Combat Systems Operator sailor after initial category training include: manning the Action Information Organisation - the warfare/fighting centre within the ship; - the operation of combat data systems; - the operation of radar and sonar equipment; - weapons fire control, where this function is a part of the ship's Combat Data System; and ship's husbandry.