Sensational June meeting - Submarine presentation

Unseen and unhindered, the silent Submarine Service gives the Royal Navy strength beneath the waves.

At the June 2023 meeting of the West Kent Military Lodge we had the pleasure of receiving a Submarine presentation by Lt Cmdr Kevin Todd MBE & Lt Cmdr Pat Drummy (both RN Retired and current Freemasons) called ‘Submarine Warfare, Conflict Sinking, Torpedo Trials and the Falklands War’ or “Pinky & Perky’s Brief Introduction to Submarines”.

Submarine Presentation summary

“There are two types of vessel at sea – Submarines and Targets!”, said Lt Cmdr Kevin Todd MBE.

This certainly set the scene for what was to be a thought provoking and enthralling submarine presentation.

It was a great insight into the lives of two much-respected submariners in what has become a vastly technical and, at some times, arduous task to maintain our homeland security from threats at sea.

We learnt that in operating submarines for over a century, the Royal Navy has always been at the forefront of underwater warfare and has built an enduring reputation for professionalism and courage (although this wasn’t the case in the early days as much skepticism was shown by the powers that be within the Admiralty).

The fact is that submarines combine qualities of stealth, endurance and flexibility, characteristics that give them unparalleled freedom to operate worldwide in support of national and coalition operations.

Using their potent armament of torpedoes and precision land-attack missiles, the Submarine Service's “Boats” (as they are known) have an unrivalled capability to seek out and destroy surface vessels, other submarines and land targets.

From the early “Boats” to what we know nowadays as Vanguard Class submarines was clearly explained, in a somewhat humorous manner at times, the latter of which now provide the UK's independent strategic nuclear deterrent.

Did you know? 

Since 1968, the Royal Navy has upheld a patrol mission of Continuous At Sea Deterrence to such threats.

We were interested to hear that as the current Vanguard-class submarines reach the end of their lifecycle, they will be replaced by a fearsome new breed of nuclear submarine: the Dreadnought class.

In summary, the talk was enthralling, serious and funny all wrapped up in a delightful package.

If you ever see a Summons with their names on as guest speakers – you must accept the “Call to Arms” and visit. A truly spectacular Submarine Presentation that is not to be missed!