USCG Announces Creation Of Special Missions Command

Some of the Coast Guard teams that work along the inland waterway system and in security its ports are being centralized under the agency’s new Special Missions Command, which will oversee its deployable specialized forces.

Maritime Security Response Teams, which serve as the Coast Guard’s first responders to maritime terrorism and high-risk threats, will be one unit in the new command.

Maritime Safety and Security Teams, rapidly deployable boat teams providing port, waterway and coastal security safety to safeguard the public, protect the marine transportation system and respond to maritime crime, are also included.

Port Security Units, which provide shoreside and waterborne security, are also part of the new command.

The Coast Guard made the announcement May 6.

Special Missions Command will be located at the existing Coast Guard C51 Service Center in Kearneysville, W.Va. It is expected to be commissioned on or around October 1. The Coast Guard said the command will fully integrate the service’s deployable special forces under a single operational commander to provide oversight and advocacy and to improve readiness, mission effectiveness and interoperability to meet service, department and joint military requirements.