What is the primary function of the Department of the Navy?

The primary function of the Department of the Navy is to provide naval forces that are trained and equipped for maritime operations. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including the readiness and capability of naval combat forces, ensuring that these forces are prepared to operate effectively in various maritime environments. The Department of the Navy aims to maintain and enhance the ability of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to protect U.S. interests globally, respond to conflicts, and support national security objectives.

While aviation support, personnel recruitment and training, and logistics management are all important aspects of the overall mission of the Department of the Navy, they are all subsets of the larger goal of ensuring comprehensive naval capabilities. The focus on training and equipping forces for maritime operations highlights the Department's commitment to maintaining effective naval readiness in line with strategic defense needs.