Name a tactical use for the shotgun in the Navy.

The tactical use of shotguns in the Navy primarily revolves around close-quarters combat and breaching doors. Shotguns are designed to deliver a high volume of shots, dispersing multiple pellets over a wide area, which makes them particularly effective in confined spaces where precision aiming is challenging. This capability is essential during shipboard operations, urban warfare, or any scenario where engagements occur in tight, enclosed environments.

Using a shotgun for breaching doors allows personnel to quickly gain access to hostile areas without the need for explosive breaching devices, thereby minimizing the risk of collateral damage. The effectiveness of shotguns in such situations stems from their ability to fire different types of ammunition, including breaching rounds specifically designed to shatter a door or other barriers. This flexibility enhances operational readiness and tactical advantage in close-quarter encounters, ensuring that Navy personnel can respond swiftly to threats and secure high-value targets.