Is the navy getting rid of seabees?

Is the Navy Getting Rid of SEABEES?

The United States Navy’s construction battalions, commonly known as the Navy’s "SEABEES" (which stands for Construction Battalions), have been an integral part of the naval force since World War II. They are responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing naval infrastructure, as well as conducting humanitarian and civic assistance operations. However, with the changing nature of warfare and the Navy’s shrinking budget, there have been rumors that the SEABEES might be discontinued. But is this really the case?

Are SEABEES Disappearing?

Recent news articles and rumors have sparked concern among SEABEE personnel and enthusiasts, suggesting that the Navy might be reducing or eliminating SEABEE units. The rumors originated from a plan announced by the Navy’s Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Karl Schultz, in 2020, to reduce the number of Construction Battalion (CB) detachments by 20%.

Table: SEABEE Detachment Reduction Plan

While it is true that the Navy is planning to reduce the number of SEABEE detachments, this reduction does not necessarily mean the elimination of the SEABEE force. In fact, the Navy has committed to retaining a minimum of 10 CB detachments, ensuring that the remaining units will continue to provide construction and repair services to naval forces and allies.

What are the Reasons behind the Reduction?

The decision to reduce the number of SEABEE detachments is attributed to several factors, including:

• Budget constraints: The Navy is facing significant budget pressures, which have forced them to reassess their personnel and unit structure.
• Shift in naval warfare: The nature of modern warfare is changing, with a greater emphasis on Information Warfare, Cyber Warfare, and distributed operations. The Navy’s construction battalions, which were initially designed for large-scale base construction and maintenance, are being realigned to support smaller, more agile deployments.
• Increased demand for CB services: As the Navy continues to emphasize its focus on littoral operations, there is an increased need for CBs to provide construction and maintenance services to support these efforts.

What does the Future Hold for SEABEES?

Despite the planned reduction in the number of SEABEE detachments, the Navy has no intention of abolishing the SEABEE force entirely. In fact, the Navy has plans to rebalance and modernize its construction battalions to better support emerging operational requirements.

What are the Key Changes in the Future?

To better adapt to the changing naval landscape, the SEABEES will:

• Focus on agile, deployable construction assets: CBs will focus on deploying smaller, modular construction assets that can rapidly respond to emerging operational needs.
• Emphasize littoral construction expertise: CBs will expand their expertise in littoral construction, such as beach infrastructure, wharf construction, and logistics support.
• Increase collaboration with other naval elements: CBs will work more closely with other naval units, such as the SEALs, SEAL Delivery Vehicles, and Coastal Riverine Squadrons, to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Develop advanced technology and skillsets: CBs will invest in cutting-edge technologies, such as 3D printing and advanced survey equipment, and develop skills in areas like cyber operations and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs).

Conclusion

The rumors that the Navy is getting rid of SEABEES are largely unfounded. While the SEABEE force is indeed undergoing a transformation, it is not a reduction, but rather a rebalancing to better support emerging operational requirements. The future of SEABEES is promising, with plans to develop agile, deployable construction assets, increase littoral construction expertise, and foster greater collaboration with other naval elements. With their unparalleled construction and maintenance capabilities, the SEABEES will continue to play a vital role in supporting naval operations and national security.

Additional References:

• "U.S. Navy to Cut 20% of SEABEE Construction Detachments" (2020), Defense One
• "SEABEE Force Transforming to Meet Emerging Threats" (2022), Naval Sea Systems Command
• "SEABEE History: From World War II to the Present Day" (2022), U.S. Navy Website