tactical coxswain in the U.S. Coast Guard is a highly trained boat operator who performs advanced, high-risk maneuvers in tactical situations, such as intercepting vessels in security zones and enforcing maritime law enforcement tactics. This role requires completion of specialized training like the Tactical Coxswain Course (TCCA), which includes skills in close-quarters boat maneuvering, communication between boats, weapon functioning, and tactical positioning to protect assets. 

Role and responsibilities

• Command and control: A tactical coxswain is responsible for the safety of the crew and the safe operation of the boat during tactical missions.
• Tactical operations: This includes performing difficult turns, stops, and intercepts, especially within security zones around high-value assets.
• Vessel interception: A key part of the role is to intercept, identify, and warn off vessels of interest to ensure they stay out of restricted areas.
• Crew coordination: Tactical coxswains must work with their crew to coordinate actions, such as boat positioning and communication, during a mission. 

Training

• Tactical Coxswain Course (TCCA): A 10-day high-risk training course for coxswains assigned to Level One Coast Guard units.
• Course content: The TCCA provides advanced skills in Coast Guard tactics, including classroom and hands-on underway training for close-quarters maneuvers and boat positioning.
• Qualification: After completing training, a coxswain is qualified to perform these advanced tactical operations and must also meet other requirements, such as passing oral exams and check rides, according to The Salute Uniforms. 
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  The 
  Tactical Coxswain in the U.S. Coast Guard is an advanced qualification held by personnel (typically Boatswain’s Mates) who are experts in operating high-speed pursuit boats and employing specific tactics for maritime interdiction, security zone enforcement, and counter-terrorism operations. 
  This role is distinct from a standard coxswain and involves specialized, high-risk training to perform safely and effectively in dynamic, potentially hostile environments. 
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  A U.S. Coast Guard Pursuit Coxswain (PCOXN) is a highly trained boat operator who leads law enforcement missions, specifically the pursuit and stopping of non-compliant vessels (NCVs). To become a Pursuit Coxswain, an individual must be at least an E4 rank, be assigned to a pursuit unit, and have extensive training and experience in advanced boat handling, including close-quarters maneuvering at high speeds under various sea conditions. The role involves coordinating with other units and agencies to ensure the safe and effective completion of interdictions. 
  
  Becoming a Pursuit Coxswain
  Current certification: Must be certified on an appropriate platform, such as the Over-The-Horizon-Interceptor (OTH-IV), Response Boat-II (RBS-II), or Special Purpose Craft-Law Enforcement (SPC-LE).
  Experience: Have either 20 certified underway hours as a coxswain or be certified for 6 months on the platform at their current unit.Additional qualifications: Must be qualified as a Pursuit Boat Crew Member and either a Boarding Team Member or Boarding Officer.Rank and assignment: Must be an E4 or above and be assigned to a pursuit unit or have orders to one.Demonstrated skill: Consistently demonstrate the judgment, maturity, and boat handling skills needed for high-risk training. 
  Key responsibilitiesHigh-risk operations: Leading complex law enforcement missions involving the pursuit and stopping of non-compliant vessels.
  Advanced boat handling: Operating a boat at high speeds in a variety of conditions while performing close-quarter maneuvering.
  Mission coordination: Working with other units and partner agencies to ensure the successful completion of a mission.
  Safety and conduct: Ensuring the safety and conduct of the crew and passengers while completing assigned missions. 
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  Pursuit Coxswain in the U.S. Coast Guard is a highly specialized boat operator responsible for leading dangerous, high-speed maritime law enforcement missions, including the interdiction of non-compliant vessels (NCV) involved in activities such as smuggling. 
  These coxswains operate in high-stress environments, requiring advanced boat handling skills, tactical communication, and mature judgment to safely pursue and stop vessels that ignore lawful orders to stop.