Which of the following was NOT a function performed by Navy Divers throughout history?

The correct answer to the question about which function was not historically performed by Navy Divers is disarming nuclear weapons. Throughout their history, Navy Divers have taken on various critical roles that align with their specialized training and operational capabilities.

Recovering downed aircraft, collecting intelligence, and salvaging wreckage after battles are all activities that Navy Divers have actively engaged in. For instance, aircraft recovery involves divers retrieving planes and their contents from the ocean, often utilizing their skills in deep and challenging underwater environments. Intelligence collection may include gathering data and materials from submerged locations to support military operations. Salvaging wreckage is part of operational recovery and involves recovering sunken ships or cargo to prevent environmental damage and to learn from past incidents.

In contrast, disarming nuclear weapons falls outside the scope of traditional Navy Diver tasks. This function typically requires specialized training and expertise in bomb disposal and nuclear safety protocols, which are usually the domain of specific bomb disposal units or other military specialties rather than divers.