Libyan Navy visits Royal Naval training bases
A delegation from the Libyan Navy recently visited HMS Raleigh and Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC) for an insight into the methods used by the Royal Navy to train new recruits.
Commodore Bushnak (centre, in white, with moustache) views weapons training in the simulator at HMS Raleigh [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
The delegation was led by Commodore Hassan Ali Bushnak, Chief of Staff of the Libyan Naval Force.
During their time at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint the visitors were able to see recruits undergoing their 10-week initial naval training course.
The visitors were shown the facilities used to teach recruits how to safely handle and fire the SA80 rifle and first aid training.
They were also invited to see the former minesweeper HMS Brecon, which is now used to give recruits their first taste of life on board ship, and for a diverse range of specialist training from seamanship to catering and hospitality.
Commodore Bushnak is no stranger to BRNC Dartmouth, having trained at the College himself in 1973.
Libyan Navy visitors are briefed on the field craft skills provided to new recruits at HMS Raleigh [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
During their time in Dartmouth, the Libyan delegation were able to meet with Officer Cadets and witness a demonstration of maritime leadership training on the River Dart.
This demanding four-day exercise is the culmination of the second stage of Initial Officer Training, known as the ‘marinisation phase’.
In crews of seven, the Officer Cadets use motor whalers and picket boats in a tactical scenario based on a humanitarian operation, bringing together the skills they have learnt throughout their course, including leadership, navigation and seamanship.
The visit to HMS Raleigh and BRNC formed part of a wider visit by the Libyan delegation to the Royal Navy in the UK to build relations, offer opportunities, and to help understand the enormous challenges Libya faces in creating a modern naval force.