RAN On-Shores Aegis Combat System Training

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) recently announced that the Navy Training System Centre Randwick (NTSC-R) had reached a significant milestone in strengthening sovereign training capabilities on the Aegis combat system.

The completion of a three-week “Train the Trainer” Apprentice Network Technician (ANT) session in May, will equip instructors to lead future sessions independently.

The instructional responsibilities have now fully transitioned into Australian hands.

The lessons learned from this effort will also be used to support the on-shoring of more international lead courses in the future, increasing the RAN’s self-reliance in training delivery.

“The initiative forms part of a wider effort to enhance national self-reliance and preparedness ahead of the upcoming Aegis baseline upgrade,” NTSC-R Officer in Charge Lieutenant Commander Phillip Qin said in a Defence release. “This transition is a great leap forward for Australia’s ability to deliver training independently, aligning with strategic goals and supporting long-term workforce capability.”

Aegis technicians undergoing the ANT courses receive fundamental networking and programming skills before furthering their Aegis curriculum in the United States.

The RAN also stated that an increased number of locally delivered ANT courses are being scheduled for the remainder of 2025 and beyond to meet the training demands from both uniformed and contracted personnel.

“As the demand for ANT training grows, local delivery becomes essential – not only as a foundation for future technical and operational courses, but also for industry partners engaged in test and trial activities,” Lieutenant Commander Qin said.

For the RAN, the increased volume of delivery will provide a steady flow of qualified individuals to support its upcoming guided missile destroyer upgrade programme and associated activities.