Which SOF component is primarily responsible for maritime operations?

The United States Navy Special Warfare Command, commonly known for its SEALs, is primarily responsible for maritime operations. This component specializes in conducting a range of missions in the maritime environment, including direct action, reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare at sea, in rivers, and in coastal areas. The training the SEALs undergo emphasizes various aspects of maritime combat, diving, and survival skills necessary for their unique operational environment.

This specialization distinguishes the Navy SEALs from other SOF components. For example, while the Army Special Forces and the Air Force Special Operations provide critical support and capabilities in ground and air operations respectively, their focus does not encompass the extensive maritime domain that is the primary focus of Naval Special Warfare. Joint Special Operations Command serves to integrate and coordinate the different SOF assets and capabilities across the services but does not specifically focus on maritime operations. Therefore, the SEALs' unique training and mission focus categorize them as the key players in maritime special operations within the Special Operations Forces structure.