In Operation Polar Dagger, Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEALs) hailing from the East Coast seamlessly joined forces with the USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) in the challenging Alaskan Arctic terrain. This joint endeavor showcased the extraordinary capabilities of special operations forces in operating effectively in austere locations to safeguard critical infrastructure and enhance cooperation in the region.
Operation Polar Dagger serves as a testament to the United States’ unwavering dedication to maintaining operational readiness across diverse environments and ensuring the capacity for subsequent missions. The integration of SEALs with the Murtha, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship, underscored the remarkable flexibility and adaptability of the U.S. military in responding to the ever-evolving strategic landscape.
According to Naval Special Warfare Group 2 Commodore Capt. Bill Gallagher, “The integration of U.S. Navy SEALs with the USS John P. Murtha during Operation Polar Dagger further prepares our forces to operate effectively in the extreme environment of the high-north – while contributing to our national security objectives. Naval Special Warfare’s capacity to collaborate with fleet assets offers combatant commanders increased flexibility in deploying forces to address emerging challenges in the region.”
The Murtha’s advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology played a pivotal role in the successful deployment of SEALs and combat craft assault boats. Equipped with state-of-the-art command and control systems, the vessel provides unparalleled flexibility in orchestrating amphibious operations. Its well deck and specialized equipment enable swift and seamless launch and recovery of Naval Special Warfare assets, facilitating precision missions even in demanding environments like the Arctic. This integration not only exemplifies the synergy between modern fleet assets and elite special forces but also underscores the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining a technologically advanced and adaptable fleet.
In the words of Capt. Doug Langenberg, commanding officer of USS John P. Murtha, “Amphibious transport dock ships, such as ours, possess numerous unique capabilities that make them ideal platforms to support special operations forces. The amphibious Navy’s involvement in Operation Polar Dagger in the High North allows us to test new capabilities and advance response options, providing our joint force with a distinct advantage in a maritime environment over our competitors.”
Throughout the operation, the SEALs embarked from the Murtha’s well deck using combatant craft assault boats, navigated through the challenging waters of the Bering Sea to a remote island, conducted an over-the-beach patrol, and made their exit via helicopter. This joint operation emphasized the strategic significance of the Arctic region while highlighting the United States’ dedication to employing a multifaceted approach to homeland defense.
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SOURCE
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/452971/naval-special-warfare-interoperates-with-uss-john-p-murtha-bering-sea