Phoenix Damage Repair Instructional Unit

Vital to teaching sailors the art of damage control, the Phoenix Damage Repair and Instructional Unit – known throughout the Royal Navy as the DRIU or ‘drew’ – is responsible for saving at least two flooded ships in recent years.

Split over three decks, the unit simulates compartments of a ship with water rushing in through various holes.

Sailors are expected to stop the inrush of water using blocks of wood and hammers.

Key to the success of the DRIU is its realism – thanks to hydraulics it rocks and rolls up to 15 degrees to port and starboard, simulating the motion of a ship.

The techniques taught in the simulator meant that sailors were able to save both HMS Endurance and HMS Nottingham when both were close to sinking due to severe flooding.