What is the primary responsibility of a surface warfare officer?

The primary responsibility of a surface warfare officer is to oversee operations concerning surface vessels and engage in naval combat. This role is critical as surface warfare officers are tasked with the coordination and execution of a wide range of missions that involve surface ships. These missions can include anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and amphibious operations.

By focusing on the capabilities and tactics unique to surface combatants, surface warfare officers ensure that naval battles are executed efficiently, leveraging the strengths of their vessels against potential threats. They possess specialized knowledge about naval tactics, ship capabilities, and weapons systems, which enables them to make informed decisions during engagements.

In contrast, some of the other options, while associated with naval operations, do not align with the specific duties of a surface warfare officer. Commanding submarines pertains to undersea warfare, managing logistics focuses on supply chain management rather than combat operations, and leading air defense operations includes responsibilities that may extend beyond traditional surface warfare functions.