HMS Collingwood (shore establishment)

HMS Collingwood (shore establishment). A major training establishment of the Royal Navy, HMS Collingwood is the principal centre for surface fleet warfare, communications, and information systems training. Located near Fareham in Hampshire, it has been a cornerstone of naval training since its establishment during the Second World War. The base is named after Admiral Lord Collingwood, a key figure at the Battle of Trafalgar.

History

The establishment was commissioned in 1940 as a training facility for the rapidly expanding Royal Navy during the Second World War, initially focusing on radar and anti-aircraft warfare. It played a vital role in preparing personnel for key naval engagements, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Normandy landings. Post-war, it evolved to meet the demands of the Cold War, incorporating new technologies like computer systems and missile guidance. Major restructuring in the early 21st century, under initiatives like the Future Navy and Project Selborne, consolidated it as the home of the Maritime Warfare School.

Role and function

HMS Collingwood serves as the Royal Navy's primary school for surface fleet combat systems, engineering, and logistics training. Its core function is delivered through the Maritime Warfare School, which provides career-long training for ratings and officers in disciplines such as weapons engineering, warfare, and communications information systems. The establishment also hosts headquarters for several front-line units, including the Fishery Protection Squadron and HMS Sultan's training group. It supports operational readiness for units across the Royal Navy, including the HMS *Queen Elizabeth* carrier strike group.

Facilities and training

The site encompasses extensive simulated training environments, including the Combat Systems Trainer and the Bridge Simulator, which replicate the operations rooms of modern warships like the Type 45 destroyer. Key training schools housed there include the Communications Training School, the Weapons Engineering School, and the Logistics School. Facilities also include a live firing range, the Jutland sports complex, and the Collingwood Museum, which holds artifacts related to Lord Nelson and the Fleet Air Arm. Training courses range from initial naval entry to advanced courses for Petty Officers and Warrant Officers.

Commanding officers

Notable commanding officers have included Captain John McAnally, who later commanded HMS Ark Royal (R07), and Captain Phil Hally, who became Commodore of the Royal Navy Submarine Service. The post-war period saw leadership from figures like Captain Sir Stephenson Heys, a veteran of the Battle of the River Plate. In recent years, command has often been held by senior officers with extensive experience in surface flotillas or naval training, with the captain also serving as the Commodore of the Maritime Warfare School. The role is pivotal in liaising with Commander United Kingdom Strike Force and NATO training commands.

Affiliated units and ships

The establishment has a long tradition of affiliation with active warships, most notably the Type 23 frigate HMS Sutherland (F81). It also maintains a close association with the HMS *Prince of Wales* and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Affiliated reserve units include HMS King Alfred (shore establishment) and the University Royal Naval Unit based at the University of Southampton. Furthermore, it provides training support for international partners, including the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy, and hosts elements of the British Army's Royal Signals.

Category:Royal Navy shore establishments Category:Buildings and structures in Hampshire Category:Military training establishments in the United Kingdom