Naval Special Warfare (NSW) is comprised of approximately 8,900 total personnel, including more than 2,400 active-duty Special Warfare Operators, known as SEALs, 700 Special Warfare Boat Operators, also known as Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC), 700 reserve personnel, 4,100 support personnel and more than 1,100 civilians.
Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC or “WARCOM”) is a component command of the United States Special Operations Command (US SOCOM). WARCOM is headquarterd in San Diego, Calif. and leads the Navy’s special operations force and the maritime component of SOCOM. US SOCOM is headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Fla.
NSW Groups command, train, equip and deploy components of NSW Squadrons to meet the exercise, contingency, and wartime requirements of the regional combatant commanders, theater special operations commands and numbered fleets located around the world. Additionally, they receive support from permanently deployed NSW units in Guam, Bahrain and Germany.
NSW Squadrons are built around deployed SEAL Teams and include senior leadership, SEAL Delivery Vehicle Teams, Special Boat Teams, and support technicians, such as mobile communications teams, tactical cryptologic support and explosive ordnance disposal specialists. Naval Special Warfare Squadrons are among the most responsive, versatile and effective force packages fighting the global war on terrorism today.
Because SEALs are experts in special reconnaissance and direct action missions — the primary skill sets needed to combat terrorism — NSW is postured to fight a globally-dispersed enemy, whether ashore or afloat, before they can act. NSW forces can operate in small groups and have a continuous presence overseas with their ability to quickly deploy from Navy ships, submarines and aircraft, overseas bases and forward-based units. The proven ability of NSW forces to operate across the spectrum of conflict and in operations other than war, and provide real-time, first-hand intelligence offer decision makers immediate and multiple options in the face of rapidly changing crises around the world.
Our Mission
Man, Train, Equip, Deploy and Sustain NSW Forces for operations and activities abroad, in support of Combatant Commanders and U.S. National Interests.
Commander’s Key Pillars
- MISSION: Know your mission, Do your mission, across the Force and always.
- PEOPLE: Our most important resource, from Force to Family.
- The FUTURE: Always seek Improvement and make thoughtful Investments. Anticipate Requirements.
Commander’s Intent
To stabilize and mature the Processes and Relationships that NSW depends upon for our success. To provide a Vision and set a Course for the NSW Community that keeps us relevant and effective. To reduce Uncertainty and Anxiety among our Forces and Families by communicating and committing to well-conceived plans and programs.
Our Identity
NSW prepares and deploys individuals, elements and forces with capability across the spectrum of defense, from cooperation to combat. We are an extreme-environment force, operating deep at sea or high in the mountains. Direct Action, Special Reconnaissance, and the Sea are our strengths, but we serve and succeed as our Nation needs. Honor, Courage and Commitment are our Character.
We are THE TEAMS.