DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
2000
NAVY PENTAGON
W
ASHINGTON DC 20350-2000
OPNAVINST 6420.1B
N97
10 Jan 2018
OPNAV INSTRUCTION 6420.1B
From: Chief of Naval Operations
Subj: PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-SUBMARINE PERSONNEL EMBARKED
ON SUBMARINES
Ref: (a) NAVMED P-117, Article 15-106
Encl: (1) Physical Qualification for All Non-Submarine Personnel Embarking on Submarines,
Military and Civilians
1. Purpose. To provide physical requirements for non-submarine personnel embarked on
submarines, including non-submarine military personnel, all civilians, governmental or
contractor employees, and military dependents. It is the intent of these physical requirements to
preclude the embarkation of personnel on submarines that are at an increased risk of becoming
medical liabilities. This instruction has been revised to optimize the process for direct support
element personnel embarking on submarines. This instruction is a complete revision and should
be reviewed in its entirety.
2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 6420.1A.
3. Scope and Applicability. The provisions of this instruction are applicable throughout the
U.S. Navy, specifically units who operate U.S. submarines or manage personnel who embark on
U.S. submarines.
4. Policy. The basic physical standards for submarine personnel are specified in reference (a).
Since these standards have been formulated for career submarine operational personnel,
exceptions are warranted in the cases of individuals being embarked for limited periods of time,
and for the performance of specific duties. In general, consideration must be given to the period
of embarkation, the importance of the mission, and the specific attributes or skills a particular
individual may contribute to that mission. Less stringent requirements can be tolerated for short
duration cruises where return to port or rapid evacuation is feasible. Questionable or unstable
medical conditions should be interpreted as unacceptable risks and the individual should not
embark. Embarkation is defined as the boarding of a submarine for purpose of a voyage away
from shore.
5. Action. Requirements must be met for underway periods of the duration indicated.
