Further to the above posts, I do believe this whole matter has been blown out of proportion by the media. I'm not entirely sure iPod docks are being provided on the Type 45s, simply some guy in an interview with the press used the word iPod as a generic term for MP3 player. It is highly likely that it will be a commercial off-the shelf audio system, with a 3.5mm line in jack or similar. As mentioned before, it is also likely it will be wired in to the ships PA system, so that "pipes" or tannoy announcements can be heard at all times. Morale is one of the most vital aspects in the navy, as the navy's performance can be attributed to levels of morale. Life at sea is sometimes very monotonous, and there have to be interesting things for the sailors to do to keep them occupied. Everyone look at history, and the German Naval mutinies of World War I. Morale can be considered a principle cause of the mutinies, as the sailors were bored to death, had no good food, were not allowed newspapers, magazines, and were not allowed ashore. Of course I am not suggesting the Royal Navy will mutiny if there aren't iPod docks, or indeed 3.5mm line in connections, but I am emphasizing the role of these small little details in keeping everyone's spirits up when you've spent a long period of time at sea. The ship will also include a gym area and probably a library. A small cost to retain sailors who cost thousands to train up.
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Further to the above posts, I do believe this whole matter has been blown out of proportion by the media. I'm not entirely sure iPod docks are being provided on the Type 45s, simply some guy in an interview with the press used the word iPod as a generic term for MP3 player. It is highly likely that it will be a commercial off-the shelf audio system, with a 3.5mm line in jack or similar. As mentioned before, it is also likely it will be wired in to the ships PA system, so that "pipes" or tannoy announcements can be heard at all times.
Morale is one of the most vital aspects in the navy, as the navy's performance can be attributed to levels of morale. Life at sea is sometimes very monotonous, and there have to be interesting things for the sailors to do to keep them occupied. Everyone look at history, and the German Naval mutinies of World War I. Morale can be considered a principle cause of the mutinies, as the sailors were bored to death, had no good food, were not allowed newspapers, magazines, and were not allowed ashore.
Of course I am not suggesting the Royal Navy will mutiny if there aren't iPod docks, or indeed 3.5mm line in connections, but I am emphasizing the role of these small little details in keeping everyone's spirits up when you've spent a long period of time at sea. The ship will also include a gym area and probably a library. A small cost to retain sailors who cost thousands to train up.