The US Coast Guard is establishing a new Special Missions Command (SMC) to consolidate and oversee its deployable specialized forces under a single operational authority. The command, expected to be commissioned around October 1, 2026, will be based at the Coast Guard C5I Service Center in Kearneysville, West Virginia.

The new structure will bring together elite units—including Maritime Security Response Teams, Tactical Law Enforcement Teams, Maritime Safety and Security Teams, Port Security Units, Regional Dive Lockers, and the National Strike Force—to improve readiness, coordination, and response to national security threats, emergencies, and complex maritime incidents.

Leadership describes the move as a major modernization step designed to enhance operational effectiveness, strengthen interoperability with joint forces, and ensure rapid, coordinated responses to evolving maritime threats, disasters, and geopolitical challenges.