Submarine Electronics

Overview

The Navy Submarine Electronics Computer Field (SECF) supports submarine sonar, weapons, communications, and navigation systems. The Navy Submarine Electronics personnel operate and maintain highly advanced hardware with rigorous training and strong career opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Fire Control Technician (FT) – Operate, test, and maintain submarine combat control systems; participate in weapons handling and operate non-tactical computer systems and peripherals. Responsible for a wide range of weapons, including torpedoes, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and nuclear ballistic missiles.
• Sonar Technician, Submarine (STS) – Specialize in underwater acoustic technologies; operate a submarine's sonar and related equipment; conduct underwater surveillance, collect data, track targets, and maintain sensitive sonar hardware.
• Electronics Technician (ET / RF and ET / NAV) – Install, administer, and maintain onboard communications and navigation systems; ET / RF focuses on submarine radio communications and submarine LAN systems; ET / NAV focuses on navigation and radio equipment and related programs.
• Other electronics careers that require advanced nuclear training may involve work with nuclear reactor control, propulsion, and power generation on Navy nuclear-powered submarines or aircraft carriers.

Work Environment

As a Navy Submarine electronics specialist, you may serve at sea or ashore, operating and repairing systems on Navy submarines at bases or underway. Deployments are often secret and extended, potentially lasting several months with limited surface time.

Training & Advancement

Initial 7–9 week Recruit Training (Boot Camp) followed by Basic Enlisted Submarine School in Groton, CT for 4 weeks of instruction in basic submarine systems. Sailors then attend "A" School in Groton, CT for formal specialty training in electricity, electronics, computers, digital systems, fiber optics, and electronics repair.

"A" School for FTs – 27 to 33 weeks in Groton, CT covering electronics, mathematics, and computer theory to support operation and maintenance of submarine weapons control systems. Further training may be received at a "C" School for advanced maintenance and TLAM / related computer skills.

"A" School for STSs – 18 weeks in Groton, CT covering electrical skills, electronics, computers, and sonar fundamentals. Further training may be received at a "C" School for advanced maintenance and related topics in Advanced Oceanography and Acoustic Intelligence Analysis.

"A" School for ETs (ET / RF and ET / NAV) – 9 weeks in Groton, CT followed by a 14–28 week course in Groton, CT; Kings Bay, GA; or Bangor, WA providing further training specific to communications (ET / RF) or navigation (ET / NAV), with assignment to a fast attack or ballistic missile submarine.

Navy Nuclear Field (NF) Program provides additional training for nuclear-trained ETs. Details are described in the Navy Nuclear Field Program section on the nuclear operations page.

Promotion opportunities are available but competitive and based on performance. Specialized training and experience can lead to credentialing and related opportunities.

Education Opportunities

Navy technical and operational training in submarine electronics can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also pursue opportunities such as :

Qualifications & Requirements

Seniorities and Employment

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