The Navy has been part of the WSMR test community since June 14, 1946, when naval activity was established to participate in research and testing of captured German V-2 rockets. Today, the mission of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division, White Sands Detachment includes land-based live fire testing of naval weapon systems, missiles, guided munitions and lasers, missile and rocket assembly, research rocket launch operations and assemblies, and launch of ballistic missile target vehicles.
Navy facilities include the LLS-1 Desert Ship, Missile Assembly Facility, south and north range rocket launch sites, south and midrange gun sites, and other test sites.