Navy Seal SCUBA Training
Navy SEAL scuba training is one of the most important parts of the intense regimen of SEAL training. The versatility that extensive underwater training provides the SEALs makes them one of the most widely recognized and respected military forces in the world. Each qualified candidate not only develops physical fitness through extensive swimming, but also learns how to handle weapons and explosives while underwater.
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Preparation
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The ability of a candidate to pass the scuba training portions of SEAL training is largely dependent on his preparation, both physically and mentally. Before entering Basic Underwater Demolitions School, or BUD/S, in the SEAL training program, a candidate spends eight weeks in preparatory classes and must pass a Physical Screening Test, which includes swimming 500 yards in less than 12 minutes and 30 seconds. A competitive candidate swims the distance in less than 10 minutes using only side-strokes or breast-strokes. If admitted to the program, the candidate must prove his physical and mental toughness by passing an intense seven week physical conditioning program.
Focus
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The ability to use bodies of water for transportation of a military operative force, without relying on easier-detected equipment such as submarine vehicles, is what distinguishes the SEALs from other fighting forces. As such, the focus of SEAL scuba training is on long-distance swimming that enables the SEAL to fight or accomplish an objective once arriving at his destination. Stamina is therefore the key focus in the physical fitness of a Navy SEAL undergoing scuba training.
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Equipment
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SEALs learn how to use various pieces of scuba equipment--including open circuit, closed circuit and closed circuit-mixed gas systems--to accomplish their long-distance swims in a variety of situations. Open circuit systems are used in most situations, and are the ordinary scuba tanks employed by amateur divers, as they simply deliver air to the diver through a standard breathing apparatus. Closed circuit systems filter pure oxygen into breathable air and are used in either shallow or extremely cold water. Closed circuit-mixed gas systems are similar to the closed circuit systems, but pressurize the oxygen in such a way that it can be used at extreme depths. SEALs are all given extensive training on the maintenance and use of these different systems.
Advanced Training
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After completing BUD/S, those enlisted in the SEAL training program are moved on to advanced programs, called SEAL Qualification Training (SQT). These programs cover a number of topics, including a number of specialized underwater SCUBA skills involving advanced combat and demolitions. Additional SCUBA training is provided for operation in extreme conditions and under a number of combat scenarios, including open water operations.
Impact
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The nautical abilities of the Navy SEALs, particularly their scuba training, enables them to be discreetly effective in military operations throughout the world. Most important military targets are located within one mile of a traversable body of water. SEAL training in scuba makes them highly effective in countries bordering oceans--such as in the early parts of the Vietnam War or Operation Enduring Freedom carried out in the Philippines.
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References
- Photo Credit two scuba divers image by Janet Wall from Fotolia.com
