Clearance Diving Branch (RAN)

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The Clearance Diving Branch is a specialized unit within the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) responsible for a variety of underwater tasks, including explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), underwater repairs, and salvage operations. The branch is known for its rigorous training and high standards of physical and mental fitness.

History

The Clearance Diving Branch was established in the early 1950s, drawing inspiration from the Royal Navy's clearance diving teams. The need for such a unit became apparent during World War II, where underwater mines and other obstacles posed significant threats to naval operations. The RAN recognized the importance of having a dedicated team to handle these underwater hazards and thus formed the Clearance Diving Branch.

Roles and Responsibilities

The primary roles of the Clearance Diving Branch include:

• Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD)
• Underwater ship repair
• Salvage operations
• Mine countermeasures
• Underwater demolitions
• Maritime counter-terrorism

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)

One of the most critical functions of the Clearance Diving Branch is EOD. Divers are trained to locate, identify, and neutralize underwater explosives, ensuring the safety of naval and civilian vessels.

Underwater Ship Repair

Clearance divers are skilled in performing underwater repairs on naval vessels. This includes tasks such as welding, cutting, and patching hull breaches, which are essential for maintaining the operational readiness of the fleet.

Salvage Operations

The branch is also involved in salvage operations, recovering sunken vessels, aircraft, and other valuable assets from the seabed. These operations often require advanced diving techniques and specialized equipment.

Mine Countermeasures

Clearance divers play a crucial role in mine countermeasures, detecting and neutralizing underwater mines that pose a threat to naval and commercial shipping.

Underwater Demolitions

The branch is trained in underwater demolitions, using explosives to remove obstacles and hazards from the seabed. This skill is particularly useful in clearing navigation channels and preparing beaches for amphibious landings.

Maritime Counter-Terrorism

In addition to their underwater duties, clearance divers are also involved in maritime counter-terrorism operations. They are trained to board and secure vessels, as well as to conduct underwater searches for explosives and other threats.

Training

Training for the Clearance Diving Branch is known to be extremely demanding, both physically and mentally. Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process, followed by extensive training in diving techniques, EOD, underwater demolitions, and other specialized skills. The training program ensures that only the most capable individuals join the branch.

Equipment

The Clearance Diving Branch utilizes a wide range of specialized equipment, including:

• Diving suits
• Underwater breathing apparatus
• Explosive ordnance disposal tools
• Underwater cutting and welding equipment
• Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)

Related Pages

• Royal Australian Navy
• Explosive ordnance disposal
• Mine countermeasures
• Underwater welding
• Maritime counter-terrorism