About this Unit
Special Boat Team TWELVE (SBT-12) is a unit within the United States Naval Special Warfare Command, specializing in maritime special operations. Established in 2002, SBT-12 traces its lineage to the Vietnam War-era Boat Support Units, evolving to support SEAL teams with advanced insertion and extraction capabilities. The team operates a variety of high-speed boats, such as the Special Operations Craft-Riverine (SOC-R) and the Combatant Craft Assault (CCA), to conduct coastal and riverine missions worldwide. SBT-12 has played critical roles in operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other theaters, providing mobility, fire support, and clandestine transport for special operations forces.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: SBT-12 traces its roots back to the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) and Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) formed during World War II, which were precursors to modern-day Navy SEALs and Special Boat Teams.
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Special Boat Teams (SBT) Evolution: SBT-12 is one of only three active Special Boat Teams in the U.S. Navy, specializing in maritime special operations and supporting Navy SEALs.
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Location: SBT-12 is based at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado in California, placing it at the heart of West Coast special operations training and deployments.
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Primary Mission: The unit specializes in deploying, operating, and supporting Special Operations Forces (SOF) in riverine and coastal environments, including insertion and extraction of SEALs and other SOF elements.
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Advanced Craft: SBT-12 operates some of the most advanced maritime craft in the world, including the Mark V Special Operations Craft, Combatant Craft Medium (CCM), and Combatant Craft Assault (CCA).
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Highly Selective Training: Like SEALs, Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC) assigned to SBT-12 undergo an extremely rigorous selection and training process, known for its high attrition rate.
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Global Deployments: SBT-12 has participated in numerous operations worldwide, providing maritime mobility and fire support for special operations in conflict zones such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
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Support in High-Profile Missions: While details are often classified, SBT-12 has supported SEAL missions including counterterrorism, direct action, and hostage rescue operations.
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Emphasis on Teamwork: The unit is renowned for its tight-knit team ethos—success in high-risk maritime operations depends on seamless coordination among crew members.
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Distinctive Insignia: Members of SBT-12 wear the Special Warfare Boat Operator (SWCC) insignia, symbolizing their elite status and specialized maritime skills within Naval Special Warfare.
