IUW GROUP 1 (IUWG-1)

• Origin: Inshore Undersea Warfare Group 1 (IUWG-1) was established in the early 1970s as part of the U.S. Navy's response to increased security needs in coastal and harbor environments. • Mission: IUWG-1’s primary mission was to provide harbor defense and security against enemy submarines, combat swimmers, mines, and small craft threats in U.S. and allied ports. • Vietnam War Roots: The concept of organized inshore undersea warfare stems from lessons learned during the Vietnam War, where harbors and anchorages were vulnerable to underwater attacks. • Reservist Core: IUWG-1 was primarily a Naval Reserve unit, drawing on the expertise of reservists with experience in mine warfare, security, and engineering. • Deployments: IUWG-1 detachments deployed worldwide to support U.S. Navy operations, including in the Persian Gulf, Mediterranean, and Pacific regions. • Specialized Equipment: The unit used sonar, underwater detection devices, patrol craft, and defensive barriers to secure harbor areas and detect potential threats. • Interagency Cooperation: IUWG-1 often worked alongside Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and allied forces, especially during joint exercises and real-world contingencies. • Post-9/11 Role: After the September 11 attacks, IUWG-1’s mission became even more critical, with increased emphasis on port security and anti-terrorism measures. • Legacy: In the 2000s, IUWG-1 and other similar units were reorganized into the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and became part of Maritime Expeditionary Security Forces (MESF). • Motto: IUWG-1 was known for its motto, “Ready to Defend,” reflecting its rapid-response capability and commitment to protecting critical harbor infrastructure.