As part of the contract, Serco will provide a team of “highly qualified and dedicated specialists” to support the Bridge Warfare Officer training, and is similar to Serco’s Training Support Services contract, which has provided these services for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) at HMAS Watson in Sydney since 2012.

Previously, RNZN officers have travelled to Sydney to take part in the training, but that course can now be taken locally.

“We have been a trusted partner with the RAN for seven years, during which we have also provided training to RNZN Officers,” Irwin said.

“We are pleased to now extend this relationship and expertise to New Zealand. Our Defence team will continue to deliver high-quality training to our service personnel, on both sides of the Tasman. We remain committed to serving the people of New Zealand, providing services where we can deliver meaningful economic and social outcomes.”

The contract will require Serco to work in partnership with the RNZN over the next five years in developing training systems, solutions and courseware that enable officers to learn both theoretical and practical skills critical to their specialisation as Bridge Warfare Officers.

This includes navigation (including astronomical navigation), ship driving, leadership and bridge resource management, using simulator training.

“Serco’s defence team will work closely with the Navy to develop the training programs. We anticipate the first Bridge Warfare Officer course will start in January 2020,” Irwin said.