ADM Scott Swift, USN
In recognition of superb contributions to the advancement of precision strike systems, the Precision Strike Association takes great pride in awarding the 22nd Annual William J. Perry Award to Admiral Scott H. Swift, U.S. Navy. The award honors the immediate and long term impact that Admiral Swift had on the United States precision strike combat advantage. A career warrior and visionary leader, he has amplified the necessity and criticality of precision strike through tireless advocacy and support.
As the Commander, United States Pacific Fleet, Admiral Swift’s determined leadership provided the catalyst for fundamental streamlining of the Maritime Precision Strike System in the Pacific Fleet Area of Responsibility resulting in significant warfighting improvements across the force. He directed continuing efforts to identify and correct deficiencies/lacking linkages in the Pacific Fleet Maritime Fires Cell organization, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures, and integration of Joint Fires. His innovative use of Navy and Joint Force precision ordnance including non-traditional employment under the direction of Joint Forces Maritime Component Commander helped regain advantage through surprise. Admiral Swift’s drive for innovation is a hallmark of his career and has resulted in an energized Force and a renewed spirit of excellence.
His leadership and career spent promoting precision strike with the whole government/industry team has continually and consistently pushed the zenith of precision strike higher. Admiral Swift’s warfighting instructions and SWIFT signals have led the precision strike community to focus on the maritime fight in the Pacific remaining ahead of adversaries. To help speed capability to the Fleet, he focused Program Executive Offices and their Industry partners on the unique issues presented by emergent adversary weapon systems in a maritime environment leading to a refocus and prioritization on the high-end fight in the Pacific theater. Through determined leadership, Admiral Swift brought the entire Joint and Allied warfighting team together in order to get the most out of joint fires and precision strike capabilities. Specifically, Admiral Swift was responsible for significant increases in weapons capability and precision targeting for critical weapon systems which are key to our ability to win in any campaign.
Admiral Swift is the embodiment of the Precision Strike credentials for the William J. Perry Award. The breadth of Admiral Swift’s contributions to the U.S. Pacific Fleet and the Precision Strike Community is staggering and is in keeping with the highest standards set forth by Dr. Bill Perry.