Who is responsible for operating the CIWS in naval operations?

The correct answer highlights that the Fire Controlman is responsible for operating the Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) in naval operations. Fire Controlmen are highly skilled personnel trained to manage a variety of weapon systems and associated radar and electronic systems. They play a critical role in ship defense, particularly in intercepting incoming threats like missiles and aircraft. The CIWS itself is a vital last line of defense designed to protect naval vessels, and operating it requires a deep understanding of both the hardware and operational protocols, which is within the scope of a Fire Controlman's training.

Those in other roles, such as Seamen, Operations Specialists, or Weapons Technicians, may support or assist in various capacities, but the specific responsibility for the CIWS operation and its technical aspects primarily falls under the expertise of Fire Controlmen, who are trained to control and execute firing procedures effectively. This makes them essential for maintaining the ship's defensive capabilities during engagements.