Fleet Information Warfare Center

• Origins and Creation: The Fleet Information Warfare Center (FIWC) was established in 1995 as part of the U.S. Navy's effort to centralize and enhance its information warfare capabilities. • Primary Mission: FIWC’s primary mission was to provide operational support in information warfare, including electronic warfare, operations security, and psychological operations. • Merger and Evolution: In 2005, FIWC merged with the Naval Security Group Activity to form the Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC), reflecting the increasing importance of integrated cyber and information operations. • Headquarters: The main FIWC command was headquartered in Little Creek, Virginia, positioning it close to other key Navy installations on the East Coast. • Global Reach: FIWC supported Navy operations around the globe, deploying specialized teams to provide information warfare expertise to fleet commanders during real-world operations and exercises. • Role in Operations: FIWC played a critical role in major operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing electronic warfare and cyber support to deployed forces. • Innovation Center: The unit acted as a hub for developing new tactics and technologies in areas like signals intelligence, cyber defense, and electronic attack. • Training Responsibilities: FIWC was responsible for training Navy personnel in information warfare disciplines, helping to build a skilled cadre of cyber and electronic warfare operators. • Interagency Collaboration: The center often collaborated with other U.S. military branches and intelligence agencies, sharing expertise and intelligence to support joint and coalition operations. • Legacy: Although FIWC as a standalone unit was disestablished, its mission and many of its personnel and functions continue today within the Navy’s modern information warfare and cyber commands.