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Aug 29 2024

Commander, Submarines NATO Changes Command at Northwood HQ

NORTHWOOD, United Kingdom – Commander, Submarines NATO (COMSUBNATO) was formally transferred from Rear Admiral Thomas Wall to Rear Admiral Bret Grabbe, both of the U.S. Navy, in a ceremony held at Allied Maritime Command Headquarters in Northwood, United Kingdom on August 30.

Commander Submarines NATO is the operational commander for Allied submarines assigned to NATO. In addition to daily operational commitments, COMSUBNATO plans and conducts submarine-focused exercises including Dynamic Mongoose, Dynamic Manta, and Dynamic Monarch to increase interoperability among Allied forces and enhance deterrence in support of the NATO Alliance.

Departing Commander, Rear Admiral Wall assumed command in May 2023.

During the Change of Command ceremony, Read Admiral Wall reflected on his commitment to the success of COMSUBNATO during his tenure in command.

I appreciate the benefit of bringing highly capable submarine nations together to train and operate in a cooperative environment. It takes significant teamwork, creativity, and innovation to synchronize and align submarine interoperability across the NATO AOR.

“It’s been a privilege to serve with this team during an impactful time for the Alliance,” said Rear Admiral Wall. “I appreciate the benefit of bringing highly capable submarine nations together to train and operate in a cooperative environment. It takes significant teamwork, creativity, and innovation to synchronize and align submarine interoperability across the NATO AOR. It’s very satisfying knowing that we have developed and improved capabilities in the undersea environment that are enhancing maritime security underpinned by a strong Alliance of navies who can work and operate together for a variety of critical NATO operations. I know my relief, Rear Admiral Bret Grabbe, is up for the task of taking COMSUBNATO to the next level.”

Rear Admiral Thomas Wall (USN) and Rear Admiral Bret Grabbe (USN), respectively incoming and departing NATO Submarines Commander's, addressing the attendees to the handover ceremony held in Northwood, United Kingdom

Exercises Dynamic Mongoose and Dynamic Manta are among the most effective multi-platform maritime exercises conducted by NATO and they grew in stature and scope under Rear Admiral Wall’s leadership. The inclusion of Allied submarines in Operation Sea Guardian also significantly enhanced maritime security and cohesion among NATO allies and partners.

Incoming Commander Submarines, Rear Admiral Grabbe, formerly served as the Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander for the U.S. Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Rear Admiral Grabbe said he is proud to assume command of COMSUBNATO and is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

l look forward to building off Rear Admiral Wall’s success and to continue enhancing the integral role that submarines deliver to the Alliance

“It’s an honor to assume command as COMSUBNATO and lead this talented team of professionals from across the Alliance,” said Rear Admiral Grabbe. “l look forward to building off Rear Admiral Wall’s success and to continue enhancing the integral role that submarines deliver to the Alliance.”

COMSUBNATO operates within Allied Maritime Command based in Northwood, United Kingdom and serves alongside peer commands NATO Maritime Air and NATO Surface Forces to form the operational backbone of NATO Maritime activities.

Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) is the central command of all NATO maritime forces and the MARCOM Commander is the primary maritime advisor to the Alliance.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM

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