Navy

Claims Submarine Recruitment At Risk Over Facebook Access

Isolating yourself from the rest of the world appears to be too great a sacrifice for youngsters in today's ever-connected online community.

Submarines are solitary and neccesarily covert places. In an environment where communication to the outside world is at a premium - including access to Facebook, the cost is too dear for potential recruits.

The Royal Navy is reportedly falling upon tough times attracting new recruits because the younger generation are reluctant to hand over their phones and embrace life underwater in the Silent Service.

Unless your listening to BBC Radio 4 to determine whether or not to use the submarines nuclear weapons or not, being able to interact with the outside world - whether that's getting a tan or liking a photo, does not happen on a regular basis.

The Astute-Class subs have a complement of 98 submariners per ship.

Tasked with helping the Royal Navy tackle staff shortages, PA Consulting's head of defence told The Sunday Telegraph:

'The fact that you are disconnected from the world wide web and Twitter is actually a significant barrier to recruiting young people."

'You have got a disconnect between the needs of the role, and potentially the excitement of the role and the expectation and demands of the next generation of employee.'

More From Forces TV: Royal Navy Targets Redundant Sailors For Return

Royal Navy Website: "It takes a special kind of person to be on assignment, deep under the surface for weeks on end. But if you’re ready for a real mental and physical challenge the submariner service could be for you."

In the Navy, 1,740 sailors quit early in the last 12 months, a higher rate than that of the Army or RAF.

Mr Chaffey said it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract bright young people when they are expected to make such a drastic change to their lifestyle.

The Royal Navy told Forces TV:

"The Royal Navy offers a broad range of professional training from initial entry towards fully recognised civilian qualifications throughout a career that provides plenty of challenge. Those who recognise the benefits and opportunities available are still very keen to commit to a military career. "