originating in the unconventional naval units formed during the second world war, nswc was established on april 16, 1987 at naval amphibious base coronado in san diego, california. its mission is to provide leadership, doctrinal guidance, resources and oversight to special operations carried out in maritime and littoral environments. nswc specializes in a broad range of tactical areas, including unconventional warfare, direct action, counterterrorism, special reconnaissance, and personnel recovery.