Admiral: Subs Should Be Able to Operate With Limited Technology

The commander of the Navy's submarine force is calling for a renewed emphasis on the independence ingrained in skippers during days of more primitive technology.

Vice Adm. Michael Connor said the threat of a cyberconflict that could jeopardize communication systems compels sub commanders to know how to operate with only limited guidance from above.

Despite advances in communications technology, Connor said he wants to make sure submarines can operate as they did during World War II and the Cold War.

Accomplishing that is a matter of planning, training and choosing sailors with the right character, he said.

Cybersecurity is one of the few areas where the Pentagon has either increased funding or held it steady in the past two years, despite massive budget cuts in other areas.