Navy Boarding Parties: Roles and Composition in Forceful Boardings

When a military vessel like a Navy ship needs to board a hostile vessel by force, a specialized team of crew members typically emerges. This article delves into the roles and composition of the boarding party, providing a comprehensive overview of the trained personnel and equipment necessary for such operations.

Role and Composition of the Boarding Party

The composition of a Navy boarding party may vary depending on the mission, but it usually includes the following roles:

1. Boarding Team Leader

Typically an officer responsible for planning the operation, leading the team, and making tactical decisions during the boarding. This role requires strong leadership and strategic thinking.

2. Assault Team Members

These highly trained personnel, often from special operations or maritime security units, are skilled in close-quarters combat and boarding tactics. They include:

Gunners: Armed personnel who provide cover and engage threats. Breachers: Specialists trained in gaining entry, whether through doors, hatches, or other barriers.

3. Communications Specialist

Responsible for maintaining communication with the ship and coordinating with other forces involved in the operation. This role ensures seamless communication and coordination during the mission.

4. Medical Personnel

A corpsman or medic who can provide immediate medical assistance in case of injuries during the boarding. This role is crucial for ensuring the well-being of crew members.

5. Intelligence Specialist

If available, this person assesses the situation on the hostile vessel and provides critical information regarding the layout, crew, and potential threats. This role is vital for situational awareness and planning.

6. Security Personnel

Additional crew members trained in security protocols who can assist in securing the vessel once boarded. This role helps in maintaining order and controlling the situation.

7. Support Personnel

This may include individuals who handle logistics such as supplies and equipment, or those responsible for securing the area around the hostile vessel. This role ensures that the boarding party has the necessary resources and can work efficiently.

Practical Considerations

According to the understanding of many naval professionals, if a warship lacks Royal Marines, the boarding party usually comprises:

8. Juniors and Petty Officers

A disposable relatively junior seaman officer in charge, a Petty Officer Sea, a communications junior rating, a leader of the military attaché (LMA), and a few engineering mechanics and greenies. All volunteers of course.

9. Helicopter Crew

Armed for bear, the helicopter crew plays a crucial role in providing additional support and backup. They can use various weapons to engage the hostile vessel from a distance, ensuring that the boarding party is protected during the operation.

10. Full-Scale Defense

Before boarding, the hostile vessel is turned into a very cooperative and non-hostile vessel through full-scale defense measures. Helicopters, weapons, and other defensive mechanisms on the warship itself are employed to neutralize any sign of armed resistance, ensuring a safe and controlled boarding operation.

These measures highlight the meticulous planning and training that goes into such missions, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, coordination, and the use of specialized skills and equipment.