Currently the submarine force is exploring two possible UAVs, Switchblade and ScanEagle. Each brings capabilities to the submarine to allow safer operations while continuing to perform the required mission. The constantly changing operational environment has forced all elements of the military to adapt and overcome. The submarine force is tasked with more missions and less support than ever before. As a result the ability to adapt and overcome has create a need for additional capabilities in the form of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). A manpower analysis was conducted to identify requirements necessary for submarine launched UAV operations. Current surface launched UAV Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) codes were used as a comparison for the analysis. Currently these NECs are only available to aviation source ratings. Analysis shows that there are several submarine specific ratings that have the same knowledge entry requirements as the aviation source ratings that are eligible to operate UAVs. Furthermore, research showed that based on the simplicity of operation of Switchblade and ScanEagle, that no additional manpower requirements are necessary. Specifically, on all classes of submarines, Switchblade can be launched and flown with no additional watchstations manned, compared to a standard mission watchbill. Also, with ScanEagle, SSGN class submarines require no additional watchstanders once the UAV is launched, and airborne than would be required for a normal mission watchbill. Incorporating UAVs into the arsenal of a submarine is a vital requirement that needs accomplished. This research recommends the creation of a specific NEC for the submarine force to identify UAV operators.
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