History and Mission

Following the attack on the USS COLE (DDG 67), the Chief of Naval Operations asked Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) to develop a program to provide leaders of deploying ships a better understanding of regional security environments.  Soon afterward, NPS established the Regional Security Education Program (RSEP).

The School of International Graduate Studies (SIGS) at NPS has responsibility for leading and executing RSEP events.  Professors with expertise in regional studies in the National Security Affairs (NSA) Department routinely participate as RSEP team members.

To meet fleet demand for RSEP services, NPS actively recruits leading regional experts from other universities, think tanks, and government agencies to join NPS counterparts on RSEP teams.

Because of the important role it plays in preparing Naval Forces for deployed operations, the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations provides dedicated funding to NPS for RSEP events.

In accordance with Fleet Forces Command guidance, NPS provides RSEP teams to all deploying Strike Groups.

In support of A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower, NPS also strives to provide RSEP teams to those ships deploying in support of Partnership activities.  As a result, NPS regularly provides RSEP support to Africa Partnership Station, Pacific Partnership, Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training, Southern Partnership Station and other similar events.