Captain Nathan Cosman hunts submarines during RIMPAC
From Canadian Joint Operations Command
Captain Nathan Cosman, from Kentville, Nova Scotia, is an air combat systems officer (ACSO), working as the tactical coordinator for the CP-140 Aurora. He was part of the Aurora’s anti-submarine warfare work that was a critical component of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2018—the world’s largest maritime exercise—held this year from June 27 to August 2, 2018.
As an ACSO, Captain Cosman plans, coordinates and directs the missions of aircraft and crew. He manages the operation of sophisticated sensors and electronic warfare equipment, as well as the systems for communications, weapon delivery, and precision tactical navigation.
During RIMPAC, he and his fellow crew worked from the airfield at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, near Kaneohe Bay. The Aurora extends sub-finding capabilities, contributing to the combined operations of the Royal Canadian Navy and 25 partner countries by looking for RIMPAC’s five participating submarines.
RIMPAC offers a favorable opportunity to work with international partners, including some lighter moments.
“After landing, when we first arrived at RIMPAC, a Japanese crew was conducting maintenance on one of their aircraft. As we taxied by, one of their technicians was enthusiastically waving with a big smile on his face. It was awesome. I don’t think he saw me, but I want him to know I was waving back!” said Captain Cosman.
Previously, Captain Cosman played a part in Exercise Shark Hunt, a United States-led multinational anti-submarine exercise that seeks to enhance interoperability and tactical proficiencies of participating units. “The Norwegians were incredibly professional and friendly hosts. Given the opportunity, I would not hesitate to work with the Norwegians again.”
Captain Cosman joined the Canadian Armed Forces at 18 and went on to achieve a Bachelor of Arts in History from the Royal Military College of Canada. He currently works at 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron, at 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia.
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