How Much is Submarine Pay?
Serving on a submarine is a unique and challenging experience that requires a high level of skill, dedication, and teamwork. Submariners, also known as "boaties," play a critical role in the defense of their country, conducting various missions such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations. As with any military service, submariners receive a compensation package that includes a salary, benefits, and allowances. In this article, we’ll explore the details of submarine pay and what to expect.
Basic Pay
The basic pay for a submarine officer or enlisted personnel varies based on their rank, years of service, and pay grade. Here is a breakdown of the basic pay for submarine personnel:
| Rank | Pay Grade | Basic Pay (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Ensign | O-1 | $3,287.10 |
| Lieutenant Junior Grade | O-2 | $4,137.10 |
| Lieutenant | O-3 | $5,033.10 |
| Lieutenant Commander | O-4 | $6,134.10 |
| Commander | O-5 | $7,435.10 |
| Captain | O-6 | $8,731.10 |
| Commander, Submarine Force | O-7 | $10,043.10 |
| Rear Admiral (Lower Half) | O-8 | $12,261.10 |
| Rear Admiral (Upper Half) | O-9 | $14,543.10 |
| Vice Admiral | O-10 | $16,829.10 |
| Admiral | O-11 | $19,123.10 |
Allowances
In addition to basic pay, submariners receive various allowances to help offset the unique challenges and expenses associated with serving on a submarine. These allowances include:
- Submarine Duty Pay: A special pay for personnel serving on a submarine, ranging from $150 to $600 per month, depending on the type of submarine and the individual’s rank.
- Diving Duty Pay: An additional pay for personnel who participate in diving operations, ranging from $50 to $200 per month.
- Hazardous Duty Pay: A special pay for personnel who serve in hazardous duty environments, such as those on nuclear-powered submarines, ranging from $150 to $300 per month.
- Sea Pay: A special pay for personnel serving on a submarine, ranging from $50 to $200 per month, depending on the length of service and the individual’s rank.
Benefits
Submariners receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance: Submariners and their families are eligible for health insurance through the Department of Defense’s TRICARE program.
- Retirement Benefits: Submariners are eligible for a retirement package, including a pension and access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Education Benefits: Submariners are eligible for education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
- Leave: Submariners receive paid leave, including annual leave, sick leave, and parental leave.
Comparison to Other Military Branches
Submarine pay and benefits are comparable to those of other military branches. Here is a comparison of the basic pay for submarine officers and enlisted personnel to those of other branches:
| Rank | Navy | Army | Air Force | Marine Corps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ensign | $3,287.10 | $3,287.10 | $3,287.10 | $3,287.10 |
| Lieutenant Junior Grade | $4,137.10 | $4,137.10 | $4,137.10 | $4,137.10 |
| Lieutenant | $5,033.10 | $5,033.10 | $5,033.10 | $5,033.10 |
Conclusion
Submarine pay is competitive with other military branches, and submariners receive a comprehensive benefits package to support their unique lifestyle. The allowances and benefits provided to submariners help offset the challenges and expenses associated with serving on a submarine. Whether you’re an officer or enlisted personnel, serving on a submarine is a rewarding and challenging experience that offers a range of benefits and opportunities for advancement.
