Down to the Sea in Submarines: A Cold War Odyssey

352 pages

Capt Jeremy Stocker

Memoirs are an important part of the stock of naval history. They can bring to life what the bare, official documentary record cannot. Written well and carefully read, memoirs can put the flesh on the bones of history. They can also be a thoroughly good read in themselves.

Captain Dan Conley’s work satisfies all of these criteria. Down to the Sea in Submarines traces his career in the Submarine Service from the mid-60s to the mid-90s, from the mid-point of the Cold War to the early post-Cold War years. This was the period when the RN submarine fleet went from a conventional SSK force, much of it of WWII origin, to a much smaller but nuclear-powered fleet carrying the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent. It was one of the largest and most rapid transformations in the Royal Navy’s history. The change, which Conley’s narrative reflects, was also cultural; from the slightly ‘piratical’ submariners serving in WWII-era boats to the deadly serious nuclear submariners of today.

Conley takes us through his own progression from initial training to command of Otter, Courageous and Valiant. It’s a story of underwater jousting with the Russians, the challenges of Command and of the personal, domestic aspects of a seagoing Officer’s life. The tale, well told by Conley, will be familiar to many NR members – indeed Conley is a member himself.

Beyond being a good yarn, the significance of Down to the Sea is two-fold. First, the details of then closely-guarded details of submarine operations against the Soviets and, second, Conley’s post-command service in weapons trials and procurement. His criticisms of the latter ring true to this day. He also provides invaluable insights into the acceptance of the Vanguards into service and the troubled gestation of the Astutes.

I’d recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the late-Cold War history of the RN and of its Submarine Service. And to those who just enjoy a good read.