Basic Enlisted Submarine School

Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS) is the U.S. Navy's submarine training school for enlisted sailors. Located on Naval Submarine Base New London (NAVSUBASE NLON) in Groton, Connecticut, the school is a six-week introduction to the basic theory, construction and operation of nuclear powered submarines. The course includes instruction on shipboard organization, submarine safety and escape procedures. ^[1] This program is limited to male candidates only, and requires passing a physical and mental screening.

High Risk Trainers

The Navy operates four high risk trainers at New London that sub school classes attend in random order. They are:

• Fire Fighting - Students are instructed in the differences between submarine and surface ship fire fighting and the special equipment used in sub-surface fire fighting.
• Damage Control - Sailors are required to patch leaks and seal ruptured pipes before their compartment completely floods.
• Submarine Escape - Personnel learn how to successfully escape from a disabled submarine.
• Ship Control - i.e. "Dive And Drive." Students learn how to steer and dive/rise the submarine.

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