Pavel Andreievich Chekov was born in 2241 in the Soviet Union and is a young and naïve ensign who first appears on-screen in ’ second season as the "Enterprises navigator. According to Roddenberry, he is "an extraordinarily capable young man—almost Spock's equal in some areas. An honor graduate of the Space Academy." Chekov also substitutes for Mr. Spock at the science officer station when necessary. His promotion to lieutenant for ' brings with it his transfer as the ship's tactical officer and chief of security.