McLEAN, Va. — Adm. Kirk Donald, director of U.S. Naval Reactors, cast a self-critical eye on the submarine force he leads during a presentation at a submarine symposium here Oct. 28, addressing challenges the force is facing.

Donald said that along with the submarine force’s great strengths, there is a “willingness to look critically at ourselves and strive for improvement.” He assured members of the Naval Submarine League at the organization’s annual symposium that he was very proud of his fleet, but there are “some instances where we’ve fallen short of our high standards.”

Donald highlighted several issues of concern, including recruiting, training and retention of “highly competent operators.” The training piece is particularly tough, he added, noting aging facilities and a backlog of students, which has resulted in a diminished flow of qualified operators to the fleet.

He hopes to tackle the problem by replacing existing plants with new equipment and building on simulation technology to supplement training. “There is no substitute for qualifying on a live reactor,” Donald said. “But we’ve had ample evidence that high fidelity simulators used in a disciplined formal training environment enhance the performance of our operators.”

Submarine depot maintenance has been troubled as of late, with only five of 10 ship availabilities completed on time in 2008. In 2009, only three of 12 will be on time. “We’re not there yet,” Donald said. But with congressional and DOD support, he said shipyard capacity has been increased, more discipline has been applied and the submarine technical plan has undergone a rigorous review.

The submarine force’s acquisition strategy also is getting a closer look. “Our plans will experience intense scrutiny,” Donald said. “We have an obligation to deliver capability at the best price, without compromising safety.”

Photo: US Navy