SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Warship Operations 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
64129  National Certificate: Warship Operations 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Maritime Defence 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
SAS SETA - Safety and Security SETA  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security  Sovereignty of the State 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  143  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

Learners completing this Qualification will typically be deployed as warfare operations officers on a warship. In this context the learner will be responsible for the directing of combat operations on a warship in either the anti-air, anti-surface and sub-surface warfare role. Further, in the broader context, the learner will use these knowledge and skills to contribute to the defence of South African territorial waters and/or area of responsibility against possible naval threats, thus providing a safer and secure country for social and economic growth.

Recipients of this qualification will be able to:
  • Communicate effectively in an operational context.
  • Conduct naval missions.
  • Carry out an operational watch.
  • Conduct specialised naval operations.
  • Fight the platform and combined force.

    Rationale:

    This Qualification meets the needs of the Maritime Defence Sector by providing standards against which senior naval officers can be trained. This Qualification meets the needs of society by providing competent naval officers who are able to direct a warship in a naval battle and thereby contribute to securing the national assets and thereby the sovereignty of the Republic of South Africa.

    The majority of the candidates for this qualification are likely to have at least ten to fifteen years experience as a naval officer and served in various capacitates on a warships. This qualification is the third in the progressive development of officer skills for the SA Navy. This Qualification will allow learners' access to the National Certificate: Warship Command and Control, NQF Level 6. Further this Qualification will allow the leaner access to Sovereignty of the State developmental Qualifications such as the National Diploma: Joint and Multi-National Operations, NQF Level 6 and the National Certificate: National Defence and Security, NQF Level 7.

    This Qualification has been purpose-built for the Sovereignty of the State sub-field, the Maritime Defence Sector and naval officers in their capacity as combat officers. Further this Qualification contributes to an integrated National Qualifications Framework; provides for access, mobility and progression within the South African National Defence Force career path; enhances the quality of training within the SA Navy; allows for the redress of the past and contributes to the development of the learner as an officer within the South African National Defence Force. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the learner has the following knowledge and skills:
  • Communication at NQF Level 4.
  • Mathematics at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This Qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible, if the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. Recognition of Prior Learning will be done by means of an Integrated Assessment as mentioned in the previous paragraph.

    This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow:
  • For accelerated access to further learning.
  • Gaining of credits towards a unit standard.
  • For full or partial recognition of the Qualification.

    All recognition of Prior Learning is subject to quality assurance by the relevant accredited Education, Training, Quality, and Assurance Body and is conducted by a registered workplace assessor. Because the standards are only core and fundamental, these standards may have been acquired in a range of economic sectors and these will be recognizes as appropriate.

    Access to the Qualification:

    There is an open access to this qualification for learners:
  • Who have successfully completed the National Certificate: Vessel Safety Practice, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification learners are required to obtain a minimum of 143 credits as detailed below:

    Fundamental Component:
  • The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 22 credits all of which are compulsory.

    Core Component:
  • The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 117 credits all of which are compulsory.

    Elective Component:
  • The Elective Component consists of individual unit standards from which the learner must choose unit standards totalling a minimum of 4 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate effectively in an operational context.

    2. Conduct naval missions.

    3. Carry out an operational watch.

    4. Conduct specialised naval operations.

    5. Fight the platform and combined force.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification promotes, in particular, the following Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • Conducting naval missions.
  • Carrying out an operational watch.
  • Conducting specialised naval operations.
  • Fighting the platform and combined force.

    Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, and community during:
  • The conducting of naval missions.
  • The carry out an operational watch.
  • The conducting of specialised naval operations.
  • The fighting from a platform and combined force.

    Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively when:
  • Conducting naval missions.
  • Carrying out an operational watch.
  • Conducting specialised naval operations.
  • Fighting from the platform and combined force.

    Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when:
  • Communicating in an operational context.
  • Conducting naval missions.
  • Carrying out an operational watch.
  • Conducting specialised naval operations.
  • Fighting from the platform and combined force.

    Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information to better understand and explain:
  • Naval missions and combat.

    Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others when:
  • Communicating in an operational context.
  • Conducting naval missions.
  • Carrying out an operational watch.
  • Conducting specialised naval operations.

    Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when:
  • Conducting naval missions.
  • Conducting specialised naval operations. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 Communication principles, strategies and processes within the warship environment are applied so that communication is clear and decisive and enhances leadership performance.
    1.2 Communications in times of conflict or potential conflict are clear, concise and correct according to naval and military terminology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1 Planning and preparation is conducted so as to ensure that all factors at tactical level are considered and that operational readiness is achieved at the required time.
    2.2 The mission plan is executed according to mission command principles, the command aim and within the capabilities and limitations of the ship.
    2.3 Naval missions are executed in accordance with national and international legislation, regulations and policy.
    2.4 Missions are evaluated in order to identify areas of strength and success as well as areas for improvement which can be rectified into training evolutions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1 Above and below water sensors are used in an integrated manner to create a recognised maritime picture.
    3.2 The action information organisation is employed in the gathering of information and creation of the recognised maritime picture.
    3.3 Information is communicated clearly and timeously to the benefit of own vessel and other friendly forces in accordance with established communication protocols.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

    4.1 A range of special purpose missions are executed according to specified procedures and naval doctrine.
    4.2 Aircraft capabilities are applied within the naval context.
    4.3 Aircraft are directed during naval support missions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

    5.1 The platform is positioned to maximum effect for particular tactical requirements.
    5.2 Anti-air, submarine and/or surface warfare is directed in line with naval doctrine and tactical procedures for unit and force level engagements.
    5.3 Operations are directed against multiple threats which are recognised, prioritised and responded to calmly, confidently and creatively and in line with naval doctrine and tactics.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Because assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the unit standards should be integrated.

    A variety of methods must be used in assessment and tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, simulations, case studies, role-plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment.

    The term 'Integrated Assessment' implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. During integrated assessments the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies.

    Assessors and moderators should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

    Assessment should ensure that all Specific Outcomes, Essential Embedded Knowledge and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of Specific Outcomes and Essential Embedded Knowledge. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Best Practice:
  • British Royal Navy: The Royal Navy is one of the oldest formal navies in the world and therefore has established standard training methods and approaches. The Royal Navy has been involved in all major conflicts of the 20th and 21st century and has therefore adapted its training methods and approaches to the continually changing environment of conflict.
  • United States Navy: The United States Navy, due mostly to their almost limitless capabilities, is widely regarded as one of the best navies in the world and have also been involved in all major conflicts of the 20th and 21st century. This engagement in conflict has refined their training standards to some of the best practices globally.
  • Royal Australian Navy: The Royal Australian Navy qualifications are amongst the best standards-based approaches to naval training. The Royal Australian Navy's training methods and approaches are further very similar to that of the South African Navy.

    British Royal Navy:

    The Royal Navy recognises a category of officer called Warfare Officers who are responsible for working and fighting with the Navy's fleet and ensuring safety on board ship. They are the only officers who may ultimately command naval vessels. Warfare Officers are trained at the Maritime Warfare School in Fareham, Hampshire.

    The following training is covered in the training of Warfare Officers:
  • Running the ship's operations room.
  • Building up a picture of all the various surface vessels, aircraft and submarines surrounding the ship.
  • Plotting positions of importance such as land masses or air lanes.
  • Engagement of targets making use of onboard weapons systems.
  • Weapons safety.
  • Identifying threats from ships, aircraft and land.
  • Assessing the ship's position in relation to submarines and mines.
  • Monitoring the ship's surveillance systems and intercepting signals.

    Findings:

    The National Certificate: Warship Operations, Level 5 is identical to the British Royal Navy's Warfare Officers programme.

    United States Navy:

    United States Navy Surface Warfare Officer training is conducted at the Surface Warfare Officers School Command.

    The Surface Warfare Officers programme includes aspects such as:
  • Antisubmarine warfare.
  • Anti-air warfare.
  • Anti-surface warfare.
  • The land attack.
  • Theatre air missile defense.
  • Support for marine corps and navy special warfare (seal) missions, communications.
  • Damage control.
  • Shipboard management.

    Findings:

    The National Certificate: Warship Operations, Level 5 covers all of the above mentioned aspects except damage control and shipboard management which is covered in the FETC: Harbour Watchkeeping.

    Royal Australian Navy:

    The Royal Australian Navy conducts its Seaman Officer training at HMAS Creswell at Jevis Bay 180km south of Sydney. Seaman Officers navigate and control the movement, safety and running of Navy ships. Seaman Officers are given the opportunity to qualify as Warfare Officers and then attend the Junior Warfare Application Course. The course is divided into four phases and each phase consists of the following content:

    Phase 1: Officer of the Watch duties.

    Phase 2: An overview of all departments and sub-specialist areas and consolidation of training in the duties of Divisional Officers and Officer of the Day at sea.

    Phase 3: Advanced theoretical and practical navigation, bridge management and mariner skills.

    Phase 4: Warfare theory training which entails:
  • Operational planning and management.
  • Threat analysis.
  • Antisubmarine warfare.
  • Anti-air warfare.
  • Anti-surface warfare.

    Findings:

    The National Certificate: Warship Operations, Level 5 covers all of the above mentioned aspects conducted during Phase 4 of the Junior Warfare Application Course. The other phases, Phase 1 to 3 are covered in the FETC: Harbour Watchkeeping and National Certificate: Vessel Safety Practices, Level 5.

    Conclusion:

    It has been found that the National Certificate: Warship Operations, Level 5 compares very favorably with established world navies and that training content and approaches are very similar, if not identical. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • National Certificate: Vessel Safety Practices, Level 5 (Under Construction).
  • ID 58840: National Certificate: Submarine Operations, NQF Level 5.
  • ID 57714: National Certificate: Marine Pilotage, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical articulation is possible with the following qualifications:
  • ID 58783: National Certificate: Warship Command and Control, NQF Level 6.
  • ID 49783: National Diploma: Joint and Multi-National Operations, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, and Assurance (ETQA) Body.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQA's (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards, the integrated competence described in the Qualification.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this Qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor, the applicant needs:
  • A minimum of 2 (two) years' practical, relevant occupational experience.
  • A relevant Qualification at NQF Level 5 or higher.
  • To be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  120394  Apply communication principles, strategies and processes in a leadership role  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  244644  Distribute information and control traffic on voice and data nets during operations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  244642  Manage and conduct operations in a multi-threat environment  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  244649  Manoeuvre and position the platform for tactical purposes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  244645  Achieve and maintain a state of operational readiness.  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Core  259537  Carry out watch keeping operations in the Operation Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Core  244650  Create and maintain a recognised maritime picture  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  5 
    Core  262182  Create and maintain a situation picture using above-water sensors  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Core  262186  Create and maintain a situation picture using underwater sensors  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Core  244638  Demonstrate understanding of the principles of mission command  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Core  262188  Direct anti-air warfare at unit and force level  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  262197  Direct anti-surface warfare at unit and force level  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Core  244652  Direct special purpose missions  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Core  262180  Direct underwater warfare at unit and force level  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Core  244651  Evaluate and report on missions  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Core  259538  Execute a mission plan  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  244637  Execute optimum weapons employment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Fundamental  117985  Demonstrate an understanding of the Law of Armed Conflict during multi-national operations  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Fundamental  259540  Plan a naval operation at tactical level  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Elective  244524  Demonstrate understanding vessel systems and capabilities  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Elective  259577  Direct and control aircraft from a surface vessel  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  244624  Plan and control vessel operating costs  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Elective  244533  Conduct military missions in accordance with national and naval doctrine  Level 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  8 
    Elective  244548  Execute a peace support operation  Level 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  6 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.