Naval Security Team concludes training in the Southern Interior
By Lone Sheep Publishing
The Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) Naval Security Team (NST) recently completed training in the Kootenays, conducting Defender Boat Navigation and Tactical Training from July 25 to August 13.
NST also conducted community outreach and recruitment for the Naval Experience Program.
“The purpose of the exercises was to train and test the readiness of our sailors, allowing them to become more proficient with their advanced skill sets,” said Lt(N) Robert Newton, Commanding Officer Naval Security Team.
NST is based at Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt and specializes in Force Protection and Waterborne Harbour Defence.
NST is a domestic and expeditionary tactical specialty team that’s comprised of a core team of full-time reservists.
They specialize in Controlled Access Zone defence for RCN assets, as well as visiting allied assets within Canadian waters. The expeditionary team can also deploy as a unit around the world to support our allies.
“The NST leads the way in providing advanced Force Protection and Harbour Defence for Royal Canadian Navy assets and visits by partners and allies in Canadian harbours,” Newton said.
“It was our privilege to showcase our skills and assets within the BC interior and we would like to thank the interior communities for welcoming us and allowing us to bring their Navy to them.”
NST conducted various types of underway high-value asset escorts exercises on Okanagan and Kootenay Lakes near Kelowna and Nelson, respectively.
Sailors faced increased boat traffic, shallow waterways, and a hotter climate compared to their home waters.
These types of exercises help sailors improve their ability to adapt to crowded waterways and unfamiliar conditions and hone their skills while sailing in different formations.
NST also led Defender-class boat and underwater and airborne drone displays for the public at Arrow Lake, Shuswap Lake and Thompson River.
