Amphibious Operations

The Amphibious Operations certification is an advanced maritime qualification available to operators within MSOT 8213 – Task Force Raven. This certification represents successful training in combat rubber raiding craft (CRRC) operations, littoral infiltration and exfiltration, and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) procedures.

It is modeled after the training conducted by MARSOC and Naval Special Warfare units to enable small teams to operate effectively in coastal and riverine environments.

Responsibilities

Operate Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC) in support of MSOT missions.
Conduct amphibious infil and exfil operations.
Perform Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) tasks on maritime vessels.
Conduct riverine reconnaissance and navigation.
Advise leadership on maritime infil options and risks.
Train team members in boat handling and waterborne operations.

Training Required

Must be a Critical Skills Operator (CSO) in good standing.
Completion of the Amphibious Operations Training Course.

Skills & Capabilities

Proficiency in CRRC launch, recovery, and navigation.
Familiarity with riverine and coastal infil tactics.
Competence in VBSS boarding procedures.
Ability to conduct amphibious reconnaissance tasks.
Understanding of surf zone operations and insertion challenges.
Knowledge of safety procedures for waterborne missions.

Equipment

Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC).
Outboard motor and fuel supply.
Navigation aids (compass, GPS, maritime charts).
Boarding ladders, ropes, and VBSS gear.
Personal flotation devices and safety equipment.

Training Course

Module 1 – CRRC Fundamentals

Boat assembly and preparation.
Launch and recovery procedures.
Basic navigation and coxswain responsibilities.

Module 2 – Riverine and Coastal Operations

Tactics for riverine infiltration.
Coastal infil/exfil methods.
Silent paddling vs. motorized movement.

Module 3 – VBSS Procedures

Boarding vessels from small craft.
Securing and clearing ship compartments.
Detainee handling and search procedures.

Module 4 – Reconnaissance Tasks

Hydrographic and littoral surveys.
Establishing beachheads and reporting conditions.
Coordinating with Combat Diver elements.

Graduation Criteria

Demonstrates proficiency in CRRC operation.
Completes a VBSS boarding drill successfully.
Conducts a littoral reconnaissance task under field conditions.

Advancement

After earning Amphibious Operations certification, operators may advance to:

Senior coxswain or small craft commander roles.
Instructor cadre for waterborne training.
Integration with reconnaissance or diver-focused elements.

Summary

The Amphibious Operations certification provides Task Force Raven with the capability to infiltrate and operate in coastal, riverine, and maritime environments. Through CRRC operations, VBSS procedures, and amphibious reconnaissance, operators extend the reach of the MSOT into littoral zones.