About this Unit
SBU-20, or Special Boat Unit 20, was a United States Navy special operations unit established to provide maritime special operations capabilities, particularly in coastal and riverine environments. Activated during the Cold War, SBU-20 operated out of Little Creek, Virginia, and specialized in inserting and extracting SEAL teams, conducting reconnaissance, and supporting unconventional warfare missions. The unit played a significant role in developing small boat tactics and participated in various training exercises and real-world operations throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. In 2002, SBU-20 was redesignated as Special Boat Team 20 (SBT-20), reflecting its integration into the Naval Special Warfare Command structure.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Early 1980s: SBU-20, formally known as Special Boat Unit 20, was established in the early 1980s as part of the U.S. Navy’s expansion of special operations capabilities during the Cold War.
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Role in Maritime Special Operations: SBU-20 specialized in maritime special operations, including insertion and extraction of SEALs, reconnaissance, and small boat operations in coastal and riverine environments.
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Homeport: The unit was based at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia, placing it strategically on the U.S. East Coast for rapid Atlantic deployment.
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Key Operations in Grenada: Members of SBU-20 participated in Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada, 1983), providing critical support for amphibious landings and special operations forces.
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Transition to Special Boat Teams: In 1994, SBU-20 was redesignated as Special Boat Team 20 (SBT-20) under the Naval Special Warfare Command, reflecting broader, joint operational capabilities.
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Variety of Watercraft: SBU-20 operated a range of high-speed boats, including the Mk V Special Operations Craft and RHIBs (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats), essential for covert insertion and extraction missions.
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Gulf War Contributions: During Operation Desert Storm (1991), SBU-20 performed reconnaissance, mine-clearance, and support operations in the Persian Gulf.
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Decorated Unit: SBU-20 personnel have received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, for their contributions to national security.
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Training Rigor: Sailors assigned to SBU-20 trained extensively in small craft tactics, survival, weapons handling, and joint operations with other special forces units.
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Legacy of Innovation: SBU-20 helped pioneer tactics and technologies in special boat operations, influencing the evolution of today’s maritime special warfare doctrine.
