MSC Security Watchstander Advanced and Small Arms Training at STAR Center
The Military Sealift Command (MSC) Headquarters Mission Assurance Newsletter for Q4 2025 was issued on October 2. Page 4 of the newsletter contains critical information for AMO members in need of Small Arms and Security Watchstander Advanced (SWS-A) training. The information published is as follows:
SWS-A Requirement
* OPNAV 5530 and SECNAV 5500 require all personnel who will be armed in the performance of their duties to complete annual non-lethal weapons training.
– For MSC, this training is conducted during SWS-A, typically on day 5 of the course.
– Certificates for weapons qualifications will no longer be issued without completion of SWS-A.
* To comply with higher headquarters guidance, SWS-A is required for ALL personnel who will be armed, including Masters/Captains and others issued firearms for self-defense only.
* Important: Without a current SWS-A qualification, weapons qualifications are considered null and void.
Given this announcement, effective immediately, STAR Center will only assign seats in Small Arms classes with enrollment in that week’s SWS-A class. Small Arms certificates will not be issued until SWS-A is completed.
For CONMARs, the Security Watchstander BASIC (SWS-B) course is normally required only once in your career, although some contracts may have a different periodicity. OPCOs should refer to the specific contract to be sure of their requirement. SWS-B training can only be met in an approved half-day course, which STAR Center offers.
Any questions regarding MSC Small Arms and SWS courses should be directed to Patrick Jones, Manager, Small Arms Training, at 800-942-3220 Ext. 7270 or via .
STAR Center’s course schedule can be accessed online. Enrollment questions or applications should be directed to Student Services at 1-800-942-3220 Ext. 201 or via .