Define "boarding team" within the context of TAC operations.

In the context of TAC operations, the term "boarding team" specifically refers to a group that is responsible for conducting vessel boardings and inspections. This is a critical function within the Coast Guard's law enforcement and safety missions.

Boarding teams engage with various types of vessels, including commercial shipping, recreational boats, and fishing vessels, to ensure compliance with maritime laws, safety standards, and security measures. These operations can involve checking for illegal cargo, verifying documentation, assessing safety equipment, and ensuring that vessels comply with environmental regulations.

The effectiveness of a boarding team is underscored by their training in both maritime law and potential threats, allowing them to perform their duties swiftly and safely while minimizing risks to themselves and the individuals on board the vessels they inspect. This role is distinct from other teams that may focus on training, logistics planning, or intelligence analysis, which do not directly involve the act of boarding and inspecting vessels.