What is referred to as "Brown Water" in naval operations?

"Brown Water" in naval operations specifically refers to navigational rivers, lakes, bays, and their estuaries. This term highlights the operational focus on inland and shallow water environments where naval forces may conduct missions and operations. This includes activities such as patrols, transport, and potential engagement with ground forces, which often take place in these inland waterways rather than in the deep ocean.

The significance of this distinction lies in the unique challenges and strategies associated with operations in brown water versus blue water (open ocean). Brown water operations can require different types of vessels, tactics, and coordination with various agencies due to the complexity of navigating through these often shallow and confined spaces, which may be impacted by weather, currents, and other environmental factors.