Commander (Royal Navy)

Commander is a rank in the Royal Navy, superior to Lieutenant-Commander and junior to Captain.

Commanders often were executive officers of capital ships, or the captain of small vessels such as destroyers. They were to be "duly qualified officer[s]."

Acting as Captains

Commanders were often placed in command of smaller vessels, acting as captains. This did not affect his actual rank, but did entitle him to wield the authority of a ship's captain aboard his ship except at courts-martial.

Insignia

On their sleeves, Commanders wore 3 rows of ½-inch gold lace.

Equivalent Ranks

• Fleet Surgeon
• Engineer Commander