What does UDT stand for in the context of naval special warfare?

UDT stands for Underwater Demolition Teams, which were elite units in naval special warfare primarily responsible for demolishing obstacles in enemy waters. Formed during World War II, these teams played a vital role in preparing beaches for amphibious assaults by clearing away underwater mines, barriers, and other deterrents that could hinder the landing of troops and equipment. The designation "Underwater Demolition" reflects their specialized skills in operating underwater and their focus on demolition tasks crucial to military operations. Understanding the historical significance and operational duties of UDTs is essential to grasping the evolution of modern naval special operations, particularly as they laid the groundwork for the development of the Navy SEALs.