What Do Navy SEALs Wear?
The Navy SEALs, an elite special operations force of the United States Navy, are known for their bravery, skill, and dedication to their mission. When it comes to gear, they require the right attire to perform their tasks effectively. In this article, we’ll delve into what Navy SEALs wear and the significance of each piece of equipment.
Contents
Uniforms and Gear
Combat Uniform
- The Navy SEALs typically wear the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) uniform, designed for use in various terrain and environments.
- Boots: Navy SEALs wear TAC-SOCS, heavy-duty, waterproof boots for long-range missions and high-risk operations.
- Helmet: They wear SA-100 helmets for ballistic protection and camouflage purposes.
Specialized Clothing
- Guns: Navy SEALs typically wear Beretta 9mm pistols with a Suppressor, M4A1 carbines, and M249 Squad Automatic Weapons.
- Night Vision Goggles (NVGs): Equipped with AN/PVS-15 Night Vision Goggles for stealthy operations.
- Scuba Gear: When conducting underwater operations, SEALs wear MK VII scuba gear with Dive Computers, Wetsuits, and Freedivers.
Special Gear
- Rucksacks: Navy SEALs wear ALICE Packs, rugged, durable rucksacks for carrying heavy equipment.
- Communication: Equipped with HF/SSB Radios, Satellite Phones, and Encryption devices for secure communication.
Personal Protective Equipment
- Body Armor: SEALs wear Tactical Body Armor and Kevlar vests for ballistic protection.
- Gas Masks: M40 and M42 Gas Masks for chemical protection during chemical warfare scenarios.
Specialized Underwater Gear
Scuba and Snorkeling Gear
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| MK VII scuba gear | Rugged, high-quality scuba gear for underwater operations. |
| Dive Computers | Used for underwater navigation and tracking diving times. |
| Wetsuits | Thermal protection for cold-water operations. |
| Freedivers | For extended underwater operations. |
Underwater Rebreathers
- Navy SEALs use Submerged Rebreathers (SR) for extended underwater operations, allowing for undetected underwater presence.
- Closed-Circuit Rebreathers (CCRs) for rebreathing and recycling exhaled air.
Bases and Training Facilities
Navy SEAL Training Facilities
- Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training: A 24-week course at Camp Peary, Virginia.
- Advanced Training and Evaluation (ATP&E): Conducted at Coronado, California.
Navy SEAL Bases
| Base | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) | Coronado, CA | Headquarters and training base. |
| Little Creek Amphibious Base | Virginia Beach, VA | Training and staging base. |
| Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam | Pearl Harbor, HI | West Coast operations base. |
| Camp Lemonnier | Djibouti | Africa operations base. |
Conclusion
Navy SEALs’ gear is designed to keep them safe, efficient, and effective in their various operations. From uniforms to specialized clothing, equipment, and training facilities, their attire is tailored to match the demands of their intense missions. Whether conducting long-range reconnaissance, combat, or underwater operations, the Navy SEALs’ unique gear allows them to succeed in the most challenging and dynamic environments.
