Navy's Newest Officers Could Join Coronavirus Fight 'Almost Immediately'

The latest cohort of Royal Navy officers have been told they could be mobilised "almost immediately" in response to the coronavirus crisis.

Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Jerry Kyd, told more than 130 new officers that all of them "will play your part in some way" in the battle against COVID-19, with some potentially involved right away.

The group marked the completion of their 29 weeks of training with a parade at Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth.

Due to the pandemic, it took place behind closed doors.

Under normal circumstances, the passing-out on the college's parade ground is attended by hundreds of families and friends. 

Vice Admiral Kyd, who was the inspecting officer at the parade, told the officers in a speech: "Now is your moment to add to the Royal Navy’s long, proud history.

"To serve your nation, to live up to the example set by the thousands of leaders who have passed through this magnificent College for more than a century, to lead sailors in some of the most challenging times our nation has faced.

“Some of you will be involved almost immediately in the national effort to deal with the coronavirus. All of you will play your part in some way.

"And when this pandemic passes, which it will, you will continue to be there for your nation, ensuring the safety, security and prosperity of the British people.”

Two naval nursing officers were among those commissioning, as Royal Navy medics and planners across the UK join the national effort against the coronavirus outbreak.

More than 60 engineers, 50 warfare specialists, two naval chaplains, five logistics experts and 9 officers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary also passed out during the ceremony.

Despite the pandemic, the Navy said training at Dartmouth continues.

The service said appropriate medical precautions are being taken to ensure the constant flow of trainees to the frontline fleet.

Cover image: Royal Navy.