Far East visitors experience Royal Navy training

Officer Cadets from China and the Republic of Korea have been given an insight into Royal Navy training during two separate visits to Britannia Royal Naval College.

Three Cadets from the Naval University of Engineering of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (Navy) (PLAN) spent two weeks at BRNC, accompanied by one of their instructors.  Highlights included an opportunity to work alongside the Royal Navy Cadets during their final exercise on the Dart.

The Chinese visitors were also invited to take part in strategic planning and leadership development, an aspect of study which is not formally taught during their training.  In addition they took part in PT sessions and ceremonial training.

A delegation from the Republic Of Korea Naval Academy visit BRNC on an annual basis. This year the three Midshipmen, and one of their instructors, were given the opportunity to experience training in BRNC’s multi-million pound bridge simulator and joined Royal Navy Cadets for a lesson on ship technology.

In a purpose built water tank, a 1:25 scale model is used to show the Officer Cadets how a ship will react to different environmental conditions. The Koreans also visited the Commando Training Centre at Lympstone during their time in the UK.

Captain Jol Woodard, the Commanding Officer of BRNC, said:  “We always welcome the opportunity to share our training methods with other nations and also gain an understanding of the way they prepare their future leaders.

"A team of our Cadets made a successful visit to the Chinese Naval University of Engineering in September and we have enjoyed a long association with the Republic of Korea Naval Academy.

"For each group of Cadets it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about each other’s culture, which will no doubt be of benefit to all of them as their careers progress.”

The exchange between BRNC and the Naval University of Engineering is part of the UK government’s aim to develop a strong and effective relationship with China, promoting international security, increase mutual prosperity and support China’s process of modernisation and reform.

The ROKNA was established in 1946 and is located in Jinhae, a district of Changwon, South Korea.