SONAR TECHNICIAN RATING STRUCTURE,

This study analyzes the rating structure problems of the Sonar Technician ST rating. A basic part of the study concerns the differences between submarine and surface STs. Analysis of these differences indicates the reasons why submarine and surface STs are not, and should not be, used interchangeably as a normal practice. Consideration is given to the fact that similar rating structure problems exist for other ratings used for both submarines and surface ships. Also, there is a policy to compress ratings at the E-8 and E-9 level wherever feasible. In view of the above, the following recommendations are made Extend the STS and STG service ratings through the CPO E-7 level Conduct a study in depth to determine the desirability of separating other ratings with electronics backgrounds, e.g., Fire Control Technician rating, between submarines and surface ships simultaneously, assess the desirability of compressing the resultant ratings at the E-8 and E-9 levels within their respective areas of operation. Author