MARPAC successfully hosts NATO Submarine Medical Course in Esquimalt

Participants of the NATO Submarine Medical Officer Course are assessed while treating simulated casualties suffering from decompression sickness and bodily injury aboard His Majesty Canadian Ship Max Bernays while alongside C-jetty of Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt in November. Photo: Sailor 1st Class Brendan McLoughlin, MARPAC Imaging Services.

A/SLt Samantha Cortes Munoz, 
MARPAC Public Affairs 

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The Canadian Forces Environmental Medical Establishment (CFEME) completed a successful NATO Submarine Medical Officer course held Oct. 28 to Nov. 8 in Esquimalt. This important training brought together medical professionals from around the globe, including 15 students from Canada, Australia, Singapore, the Netherlands, and Portugal, to focus on key skills in submarine medicine and emergency response. Course instructors and naval operations staff were augmented by submarine escape and rescue (SUBSAR) subject matter experts from the Royal Navy, United States Navy, and NATO’s International Submarine Escape and Rescue Liaison Office (ISMERLO).

Participants took part in a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training. They practiced using medical equipment found on submarines and learned how to handle emergency situations, especially submarine escape and rescue scenarios. A highlight was two days of realistic training aboard HMCS Max Bernays – simulating real submarine emergencies, including the transfer of injured personnel aboard the ship, and the subsequent triage and medical aid provided in a high-pressure, time-sensitive environment.

“As a Medical Technician with 23 Health Services in Winnipeg, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in the mock injury process for the submarine search, escape and rescue exercise (SUBSMASH). It’s been an incredible experience to witness firsthand how doctors from around the world collaborate during an emergency, working together as a team to ensure the best possible outcomes for all patients on board,” said Corporal Julie Chartrand.

This course was especially important as it aligned with the Canadian military’s yearly SUBSAR training. International doctors and medics from the UK, U.S., Australia, and Singapore are brought in for the course. Doing these exercises together ensures everyone is better prepared. 

“It’s a great opportunity for us to work together, speaking the same language and using the same procedures. Every year, new methods are tested for loading ships, particularly newer vessels like the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels (AOPVs) and Max Bernays. The goal is to ensure that in the event of a submarine accident, everyone knows where to go, where the equipment is, and how to communicate effectively,” said Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Nelson Harvey, the National Submarine Rescue Coordinator for the Royal Canadian Navy.

CFEME worked closely with Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) to make the course a success.

Key support included:

• HMCS Max Bernays helped with loading and unloading supplies needed for the training.
• Joint Task Force Pacific staff helped plan and run training scenarios to make them more realistic.
• Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) provided necessary equipment and personnel for SUBSAR exercises.
• Contributions from the Canadian Submarine Force included extra staff and coordination with the National SUBSAR Coordinator.
• Personnel Coordination Centre (Pacific) provided volunteers to act as casualties during training, making scenarios more lifelike.
• Canadian Forces Health Services Pacific supplied medical staff and equipment, while 11/12 Field Ambulance contributed support for two days.
• 1 Health Services Group (HSG) Detachment Esquimalt provided leadership and planning support for the course.

The success of the NATO Submarine Medical Officer course was a testament to the collaborative spirit that transcended borders. Personnel from various units, including health services, field ambulances, and diving units, came together with medical professionals from Canada and allied nations, sharing expertise and best practices in submarine medicine. This global convergence of knowledge and experience not only enriches the training environment but also fosters lasting partnerships, reinforcing the commitment to excellence in emergency response and medical readiness across NATO forces.

Completing this course shows Canada’s commitment to improving submarine medical skills within NATO. Participants gained new skills and insights, boosting their ability to respond to emergencies.