Welcome to Your Sailor's next stop: “A” School at Naval Base New London

Groton, Connecticut

(Naval Submarine Base New London)

If your Sailor’s orders say Groton, Connecticut, they are headed to the Navy’s submarine capital of the world — Naval Submarine Base New London.

Groton is home to the Navy’s primary submarine training center and is where Sailors begin their journey into the Silent Service.

If your Sailor is reporting here, they are entering the world of submarines.

Where Is It?

Naval Submarine Base New London is located in Groton, Connecticut, along the Thames River near the Rhode Island border.

Commissioned in 1916, it is the first and oldest submarine base in the U.S. Navy.

The base supports:

• Operational submarines

• Submarine crews

• Submarine training commands

• Thousands of active-duty Sailors, officers, civilian personnel, and families

Groton is often simply called “Sub Base” by those stationed there.

What “A” School Happens in Groton?

Groton is home to:

Naval Submarine School

This is where enlisted Sailors attend Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS) before reporting to a submarine.

Some ratings may complete portions of their technical training here if they are submarine-designated.

What Is BESS?

Basic Enlisted Submarine School (BESS) is the foundational course that prepares Sailors for life aboard a submarine.

Training includes:

• Submarine organization and operations

• Shipboard safety and damage control

• Submarine escape procedures

• Firefighting

• Atmosphere control systems

• Introduction to submarine engineering systems

Sailors must complete this course before earning their place in the submarine fleet.

What Makes Submarine Training Different?

Submarine life is unique. Families should know:

• Space is extremely limited aboard submarines.

• Sailors must qualify in multiple systems.

• Teamwork and accountability are critical.

• Submariners earn their Dolphins (Submarine Warfare Insignia) only after completing rigorous qualification requirements aboard their assigned submarine.

It is one of the most respected warfare communities in the Navy.

What Ratings Go to Groton?

Sailors heading to submarines may include ratings such as:

• Machinist’s Mate (Submarine)

• Electrician’s Mate (Submarine)

• Electronics Technician (Submarine)

• Sonar Technician (Submarine)

• Fire Control Technician

• Culinary Specialist (Submarine)

• Logistics Specialist (Submarine)

• Yeoman (Submarine)

Nuclear-trained Sailors will typically complete earlier phases in Charleston before reporting to Groton for submarine assignment and additional training.

How Many Sailors Are There?

Naval Submarine Base New London supports:

• Multiple fast-attack submarines

• Submarine Squadron commands

• Thousands of Sailors in training and fleet units

It remains the Navy’s primary hub for submarine force operations and training on the East Coast.

What Families Should Expect

Groton weather includes:

• Cold winters with snow

• Mild summers

• Coastal New England climate

Sailors may remain in training status for a period before reporting to their assigned submarine.

Communication varies once assigned to a submarine, especially during deployments. Submarine deployments are typically classified in detail and can differ from surface ship schedules.

Why This Assignment Matters

The Submarine Force is known as the “Silent Service.” It is an elite warfare community built on discipline, technical skill, and trust.

If your Sailor is headed to Groton, they are stepping into one of the most technically demanding and respected career paths in the U.S. Navy.

It is not just another duty station — it is an entry into a tight-knit brotherhood and sisterhood that operates beneath the surface.

And as always — Navydads is here to support you every step of the way.