The course historically traces the development of warfare from the beginning of recorded history to the present, focusing on the impact of major military theorists, tacticians, and technological developments. The student acquires a basic knowledge of strategy, develops an understanding of military alternatives, and analyzes the impact of historical precedent on military thought. This course is an in-depth study of piloting, basic navigation, and rules of the nautical road. Piloting skills are learned through the use of charts, visual and electronic navigation aids, and the theory and operation of magnetic and gyro compasses, and global positioning system satellites. Students are exposed to the celestial coordinate system and how this information can be applied to navigation at sea.
Case studies provide discussion of real world consequences of poor navigational practices.
This course is a continuation of NavSci 3010. Navigation skills are enhanced by a study of maneuvering board fundamentals. Vector analysis, basic maneuvering board solutions, naval formations, visual shipboard radiotelephone procedures are studied to provide a basic foundation in shipboard operations. The courses concludes with a study of naval ship handling, watch standing fundamentals, underway replenishment fundamentals, and command and control issues. Case studies of navigation and naval operation accidents reinforce the lessons learned and underscore the need for vigilance when operating ships at sea.