US Naval Special Warfare Operators Interact with USS John P. Murtha (LPD-26) in Bering Sea

East Coast-based Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEALs) recently engaged with USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during Operation Polar Dagger, in the Alaskan Arctic region, demonstrating special operations capabilities to operate in austere locations to defend critical infrastructure and strengthen interoperability in the region. Operation Polar Dagger demonstrates the United States’ continued commitment to maintain mission readiness in various environments and to preserve capability for all-weather operations.

“Amphibious transport docks, such as ours, have many unique capabilities that make them ideal platforms to support special operations forces capabilities. The amphibious Navy’s participation in Operation Polar Dagger allows us to test new capabilities and advance readiness, giving our joint force the ability to respond effectively to any maritime contingency,” said Capt. Doug Langenberg, commander of USS John P. Murtha.

Integrating U.S. Navy SEALs with the USS John P. Murtha during Operation Polar Dagger further fortifies our joint force capabilities in austere environments, ensuring our national security objectives are met. Naval Special Warfare’s ability to operate with fleet assets provides flexibility in deploying forces to critical locations and adapting responses to evolving strategic environments.

The Murtha’s advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology play a pivotal role in supporting the deployment of SEALs and combat craft, underscoring the flexibility and adaptability of the U.S. military in responding to a maritime environment, especially in challenging conditions like the Arctic. This integration not only enhances the synergy between modern fleet assets and elite special forces but also underscores the United States Navy’s commitment to employing an adaptable approach to homeland defense and deterrence in the region.

During the operation, the SEALs deployed from the well deck of the Murtha in combat craft, undertook a remote island insertion, conducted an over-the-beach patrol, and executed various heliborne operations, showcasing the bridge between modern fleet assets and elite special forces in defending critical infrastructure.

The joint operation underscored the strategic importance of the Arctic region, while also highlighting the United States’ commitment to employing a maritime approach to homeland defense and adaptability in the face of evolving deterrence requirements. The United States Naval Special Warfare Command (USNSWC), also known as NAVSPECWARCOM and WARCOM, is the unified command responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Navy’s special operations and missions. Naval Special Warfare Group TWO provides support, support teams, and deployed elements to the world’s premier maritime special operations force for full-spectrum maritime special operations.

This operation demonstrates the agility, support, and deployment readiness of the Naval Special Warfare community to execute complex and integrated operations even in challenging environments like the Arctic. It reaffirms the United States’ commitment to safeguarding its national security interests and maintaining a formidable presence in the region.