What is the CIC? Combat Information Center

All warships need a command and control nerve center to fight the ship.

The Combat Information Center (CIC) is a sensitive area aboard the ship. Often requiring a security clearance and need in order to enter the CIC.

ALONZO M. ARCHER/U.S. NAVY

Most will immediately notice the blue lighting and the multiple sensor displays upon entering. These displays are manned by sensor technicians, passing reports to the Tactical Action Officer (TAO) who runs the CIC for the Commanding Officer when they are not in the control center. The CIC-Watch Officer is responsible for the operation of the Combat Information Center during routine watch periods.

This is the domain of Operation Specialist (OS), Fire Controlmen (FC), and Cryptologic Technicians (CT) along with other supporting rates such as Information Systems Technicians (IT).

ALONZO M. ARCHER/U.S. NAVY

The primary mission of the CIC is to keep the CO informed of the tactical situation​ within the sphere of the ships sensors. - This is the center of the ship's sensors​, it brings together the collection, processing, display, evaluation, and dissemination of pertinent tactical info and intel to command and control stations