Study of the Patrol Coastal Ship

This thesis examines the development, design, and funding of the Patrol Coastal (PC) Ship. This thesis gives an explanation of the PC's capabilities, doctrinal roles, and functions. The author uses naval special warfare (NSW) and joint publications to enhance understanding and to determine if the PC is a viable asset for naval special operations forces. The author used a survey and a set of interviews to question NSW personnel as to their knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and insight on the PC's capabilities, selecting any experience with the PC by NSW personnel. The author translates this experience into how to best use the PC and how to modify or improve its capabilities. By all accounts the PC is versatile and inexpensive to operate. It gives the NSW community an asset that is capable of extended operations, greater connectivity with all levels of operations, and increased employment options for all future NSW assets.