Examining Social, Information, and Task Networks in Submarine Command and Control

Abstract

Submarine control room operations have not changed much over the past 50 years, despite introduction of new technologies. This study sought to catalog current operations as a baseline for comparing new ways of working. Three scenarios were selected to be examined in both high and low demand: returning to periscope depth, dived tracking, and inshore operations. The scenarios were run in a submarine simulator with currently serving submariners from the Royal Navy. The flow of throughout the submarine command team was examined using event analysis for systemic teamwork (EAST). EAST models collaborative teamwork via three networks: task, social, and information. Results show that the social interactions, information transition, and focus of tasks are different depending on the particular operation being completed and the work demand placed on the command team. There are particular information elements that are fundamental across all scenario types. Task and communication load is not evenly distributed across the team, with potential bottlenecks identified between the sonar controller and operations officer roles. Implications of the results are discussed alongside recommendations for future research.