About this Unit
SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE (SDVT-1) is a specialized United States Navy unit formed in 1983, originally designated as SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE (SDV Team ONE). Based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, SDVT-1’s primary mission is to conduct undersea special operations using SEAL Delivery Vehicles (SDVs), which are submersible platforms designed to insert and extract SEALs clandestinely. The team has participated in numerous real-world operations and training exercises throughout the Indo-Pacific region, supporting national objectives and enhancing maritime special operations capabilities. SDVT-1 is a key component of Naval Special Warfare, providing expertise in underwater mobility and clandestine infiltration for U.S. and allied forces.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Name: SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One (SDVT-1) was established in 1983 and is based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. It was originally known as SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team Pacific (SDVT-PAC).
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Motto: The team’s motto is “Delivering the Warrior,” reflecting its mission of clandestine underwater insertion of SEALs into denied areas.
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SDV Operations: SDVT-1 specializes in operating SEAL Delivery Vehicles (SDVs), small, submersible vehicles that allow SEALs to approach targets stealthily underwater.
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Pearl Harbor Significance: SDVT-1 is headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, providing strategic access to the Pacific theater, making it a key unit for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command operations.
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Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, SDVT-1 conducted classified reconnaissance and special operations missions in the Pacific, often shadowing Soviet naval activity.
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Advanced Training: Members of SDVT-1 undergo specialized training in underwater navigation, combat diving, and vehicle piloting, in addition to standard SEAL qualifications.
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Integral to Maritime Special Operations: SDVT-1 often works in conjunction with submarines, which can launch and recover SDVs while submerged, greatly expanding SEAL operational reach.
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SDV Upgrades: SDVT-1 has transitioned from the older Mark 8 SDVs to the more advanced Mark 11 Shallow Water Combat Submersible (SWCS), offering improved range, stealth, and capabilities.
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Real-World Deployments: SDVT-1 elements were deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, showcasing the versatility of SDV teams beyond maritime environments.
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Unique Brotherhood: SDVT-1 maintains a tight-knit community, with a reputation for innovation and technical skill, often pushing the boundaries of maritime special operations tactics and technology.
