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Pictured:A Royal Marine from X-Ray Company, 45 Commando assault the final objective in Rinkenby, Sweden on Baltic Protector.

 

Royal Marines of 45 Commando have completed the final exercise in Rinkenby, Sweden as part of the Baltic Protector deployment.

 

Baltic Protector marks the first deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Maritime Task Group. A total of 3000 military personnel and 9 nations including the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway and Sweden will contribute to the first major maritime training deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force.

 

Credit: LPhot Joe Cater

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Pictured: A Royal Marines from X-Ray Company, 45 Commando assault the final objective in Rinkenby, Sweden on Baltic Protector.

  

Royal Marines of 45 Commando have completed the final exercise in Rinkenby, Sweden as part of the Baltic Protector deployment.

 

Baltic Protector marks the first deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Maritime Task Group. A total of 3000 military personnel and 9 nations including the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway and Sweden will contribute to the first major maritime training deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force.

 

Credit: LPhot Joe Cater

Active trip 2010

 

This exercise will take place in the provinces of West and East Flanders, Hainaut and Namur, Belgium

 

The purpose of the exercise, in collaboration with French soldiers from 35 (RAP Parachute Infantry Regiment) and the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, is training in the procedures and techniques for Non-combatant Evacuation Operations ( NEO).

 

Nearly 1,000 military Belgians, mostly from the 2nd Battalion of Commandos Flawinne and 3 Battalion Paratroopers Tielen, and 150 French soldiers, supported by 4 C-130, will participate in ACTIVE TRIP. They will travel mainly by foot or by using light wheeled vehicles

 

Main Caption

 

Belgian airborne units are on alert, with 3 Parachute Battalion from Tielen and 2 Commandos from Flawinne, are about to help Belgian expatriates in the context of Exercise Active Trip.

 

Led by the Immediate Reaction Capability (IRC - Para-Commando Regiment), this exercise will also see the participation of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. The recent security crisis born of the earthquake in Haiti has highlighted the importance of coordination between the FPS Foreign Affairs and Defense during such a crisis. To gain experience in the field, a team composed of staff from both departments will participate actively in the consolidation of expatriates (about 450 civilians), reception and sorting of these before their evacuation by road or by air on board four C-130 Defence Belgian and a French C-160.

 

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division gathered in a Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield hangar during a ceremony to case the Commando brigade’s colors before an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, October 17, 2018, at Fort Drum, New York. The casing of the colors is a traditional ceremony symbolizing a unit’s movement into a new theater of operation. The brigade is sending an element of troops on an additional mission to Kosovo for the duration of the deployment.

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division gathered in a Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield hangar during a ceremony to case the Commando brigade’s colors before an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, October 17, 2018, at Fort Drum, New York. The casing of the colors is a traditional ceremony symbolizing a unit’s movement into a new theater of operation. The brigade is sending an element of troops on an additional mission to Kosovo for the duration of the deployment.

The Commando Memorial is a Category A listed monument in Lochaber, Scotland, dedicated to the men of the original British Commando Forces raised during World War II. Situated around a mile from Spean Bridge, it overlooks the training areas of the Commando Training Depot established in 1942 at Achnacarry Castle. Unveiled in 1952 by the Queen Mother, it is one of Scotland’s best-known monuments, both as a war memorial and as a tourist attraction offering views of Ben Nevis and Aonach Mòr.

12th May 2021

 

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division gathered in a Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield hangar during a ceremony to case the Commando brigade’s colors before an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, October 17, 2018, at Fort Drum, New York. The casing of the colors is a traditional ceremony symbolizing a unit’s movement into a new theater of operation. The brigade is sending an element of troops on an additional mission to Kosovo for the duration of the deployment.

Curtiss C-46D Commando

N625CL

Weeks Air Museum

October 1991

 

Photo by Peter Willsher

Pictured: A Royal Marines from X-Ray Company, 45 Commando assault the final objective in Rinkenby, Sweden on Baltic Protector.

  

Royal Marines of 45 Commando have completed the final exercise in Rinkenby, Sweden as part of the Baltic Protector deployment.

 

Baltic Protector marks the first deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Maritime Task Group. A total of 3000 military personnel and 9 nations including the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway and Sweden will contribute to the first major maritime training deployment of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force.

 

Credit: LPhot Joe Cater

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Afghan Special Forces present their capabilities to NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen at Camp Morehead, Afghanistan, April 12. (Photo by Maitre Christian Valverde, French Navy, ISAF Public Affairs Office)

Spawn series 28: Regenerated

   

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Portuguese Army Commandos serving the Central African Republic as part of the UN Peacekeeping forces deployed n that Country.

 

Commandos return to base in bangui...

 

Congratulations to all the military who, with bravery and mastery, add another successful mission to the service of the United Nations!

After a month of a complex operation in bocaranga, about 500 km from bangui, the army and air force military of the 5th National Force deployed in the Central African Republic, mostly composed of commands, are back Based in the capital.

 

The Portuguese rapid reaction force was called upon to intervene to protect the locations of letele, boukaya and bohong from the oppression of elements of armed groups following the massacre of more than 50 people last may.

 

Once again, the presence of the Portuguese military in the region, in the name of the maintenance of peace, brought security to the local populations and boosted the negotiation between a delegation of the African Union, the government of the Central African Republic, representatives of the The leadership of the armed group, seeking a solution under the khartoum peace agreement, signed earlier this year.

 

Photos: Forças Armadas Portuguesas

 

Pictured are 40 Commando Royal Marines attacking Cilieni village at Sennybridge training area during Exercise Joint Warrior as part of the Joint Expeditionary Force exercise. May 3, 2018.

“Commando Units pave the way for the Elite Infantry by softening up strategic enemy defenses and positions and securing enemy VIPs for interrogation or public execution. They are exceptionally able to work together in small teams and think outside the box, a skill that sets them apart from the Infantry. They are extremely effective behind enemy lines and are usually sent on Special Operations, often accompanied by Snipers and Deployment Specialists. They are trained in the use of stealth and often apply Guerilla Warfare techniques in order to effectively accomplish their tasks. They are occasionally called upon to carry out Black Ops tasks, but the main body of Commandos has expressed lack of enthusiasm and general unwillingness, and as a result such tasks are kept to a bare minimum.”

 

Primary Weapon of Choice: Heavy Pistol

Secondary Weapon(s) of Choice: Combat Knife for CQC, Melee abilities, and Assassination

Effective #Units per Assignment: 2 - 8

Preferred Hours of Operation: Nighttime

Skills & Qualifications: Advanced Weapons Training, Advanced Close-Quarters Combat Techniques, Stealth, etc.

TAUNTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 16: Royal Marines from 40 Commando wait to be presented with their campaign medals following a six-month deployment in Sangin, Afghanistan at Norton Camp Barracks in the presence of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on November 16, 2010 in Taunton, England. During their deployment to Afghanistan, 14 marines were killed and 11 were seriously injured. About 600 marines from the base at Norton Fitzwarren in Somerset had been serving since April 2010 in the Sangin area of Helmand Province before it was taken over by US forces in September.

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division gathered in a Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield hangar during a ceremony to case the Commando brigade’s colors before an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, October 17, 2018, at Fort Drum, New York. The casing of the colors is a traditional ceremony symbolizing a unit’s movement into a new theater of operation. The brigade is sending an element of troops on an additional mission to Kosovo for the duration of the deployment.

Pictured is a 40 Commando Royal Marine from the PMT (Police Mentoring Troop) during a routine patrol around the Sangin bazaar, whilst life as normal goes on in the background.

  

Photographer: LA(PHOT) Si Ethell

From: www.defenceimages.mod.uk

Driving up to a wedding In Invergordon in the Scottish Highlands we took a few scenic and some not so scenic routes

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Het 2 Bataljon Commando traint in Tsjechië

 

Het 2 Bataljon Commando (2 Cdo) is op zondag 1 maart vertrokken naar het militaire oefenterrein van Boletice, in het zuiden van Tsjechië. Daar trainen ze gedurende twee weken om zich voor te bereiden op hun deelname aan de snelle NAVO-reactiemacht (NRF), die in januari 2016 van start gaat.

 

De snelle reactiemacht van de NAVO bestaat uit land-, lucht- en maritieme componenten en uit Special Forces, die de alliantie over heel de wereld snel kan inzetten.

 

“We bereiden ons al sinds januari 2015 voor op onze deelname aan de NRF” zegt luitenant-kolonel Vincent Pierard, korpscommandant van het 2 Bataljon Commando “Onze eerste oefening vond plaats in het Nederlandse Amersfoort, waar we een stafoefening hielden.”

 

Na de training voor de staf van het bataljon is het nu de beurt aan de militairen op het terrein. De eerste week van de trainingsperiode oefenen de paracommando’s van het 2 Cdo op de uitvoering van sectie- en pelotonsaanvallen. Van vrijdag 6 tot zondag 8 maart bleven de militairen non-stop op het terrein tijdens een veldtrainingsoefening. Hierbij kregen ze verschillende scenario’s voorgeschoteld, zoals een explosievenopslagplaats die ze moesten ontruimen of gijzelaars die ze moesten bevrijden. De tweede week werden de compagniecommandanten op de proef gesteld. Van 9 tot 11 maart ontplooiden ze hun compagnieën op de schietstanden met lucht-, genie- en artilleriesteun.

 

“De komende maanden houden we nog verschillende oefeningen, zodat we klaar zijn voor de grote evaluatieoefening die de NAVO eind september organiseert”, vertelt luitenant-kolonel Pierard. “In november ten slotte nemen we deel aan een laatste oefening voordat onze standby-periode begint. Die zal plaatsvinden in Spanje en alle landen die deelnemen aan de NRF 2016 zullen er aanwezig zijn.”

 

Photo's: Daniel Orban

 

Commando Boss of my new Delta Squad. Please comment and tell me what you think!

Helmet by Arealight.

Decals by MLDcustoms100

Mortar Troop from 42 Commando Royal Marines

 

Images captured show Mortar Troop from 42 Commando Royal Marines illuminating enemy positions in the mountains of the Mojave Desert during the week long final exercise of Black Alligator – 2nd December 2012

 

Photos: PO (Phot) Sean Clee - MOD Crown Copyright 2012

 

Sri Lankan army commandos march in a military parade during the victory day parade in Colombo on June 18, 2010. Sri Lanka staged a delayed military parade to mark the first anniversary of the end of its 37-year civil war, with pressure mounting for a probe into alleged crimes during the conflict. Rajapakse took the salute at the "Victory Parade" attended by thousands of troops drawn from units that led the final assault against Tamil Tigers whose leadership was killed on May 18 last year.

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

U.K. Royal Marine with 45 Commando escort a simulated high value target to a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey assigned to Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa during a combined operation part of exercise Blue Raptor in Frasselli, France, Nov. 20, 2015. The Allied Maritime Basing Initiative is a proof-of-concept to provide the U.S. and NATO allies a year-round, maritime-based crisis response force by leveraging the amphibious capabilities residing in Europe. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Keonaona C. Paulo/Released)

ROYAL MARINES CONDUCT SMALL ARMS FIRING AT SEA

 

Whilst undertaking maritime security patrols in the Indian Ocean, HMS Westminster's Royal Marine element of the Boarding Team took part in a small arms firing at sea exercise.

The exercise involved not just firing at targets but also simulated the seaboats coming under attack, thereby utilising the seaboat Coxswains driving skills when coming under contact. The embarked Royal Marines from 43 Commando Faslane used SA80 Carbines and a General Purpose Machine during the firing exercise.

HMS Westminster continues to patrol the Indian Ocean as part of her maritime security role and will return to the UK in February 2014.

 

Pictured: A round screams from the barrel of Royal Marine Craig Ravening's rifle during a small arms firing at sea.

 

Picture: LA(Phot) Dan Rosenbaum

HMS Westminster

 

Consent forms signed and held at FRPU(E), HMS Excellent, Portsmouth

139 Troop Kings Squad Pass-out Parade. The ceremony took place on the Parade ground at Commando Training Centre, Lympstone on Friday the 21st September 2012. The presenting officer for the occasion Lieutenant Colonel N Sutherland MBE Royal Marines Commanding Officer 42 Commando.

 

Crown Copyright 2012

 

Sri Lankan Army commando soldiers participate in a victory day parade in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Friday, June 18, 2010. Sri Lanka showed off its military hardware during a victory parade Friday to celebrate the first anniversary of the defeat of Tamil Tiger rebels, amid growing criticism over alleged rights abuses in the last phase of the quarter-century civil war.

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

Barking how Bad he is...

Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division gathered in a Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield hangar during a ceremony to case the Commando brigade’s colors before an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, October 17, 2018, at Fort Drum, New York. The casing of the colors is a traditional ceremony symbolizing a unit’s movement into a new theater of operation. The brigade is sending an element of troops on an additional mission to Kosovo for the duration of the deployment.

Royal Marines from Reconnaissance Troop 42 Commando conducting Modern Urban Combat (MUC) drills. The training was part of Exercise Black Alligator and was conducted in Area Delta of the Mount Facility at 29 Palms in California, USA.

 

Crown Copyright 2012

 

Royal Marines of 43 Commando train in various environment to test their skills in protecting the UK's nuclear deterrent.

 

Royal Marines have completed two weeks of rigorous training in the skills needed to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

The marines of 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group are held at very high-readiness year round, guarding the nuclear deterrent carried onboard the Vanguard-class submarines based at Faslane Naval Base in Scotland.

 

These expert warriors must be highly-skilled in fighting in a range of close-quarter combat environments and two weeks of exercises at training areas around the UK ensured they are razor sharp for duties.

 

The commandos battled in a range of complex environments and challenging scenarios that ensure they are ready to safeguard the nuclear deterrent whatever the situation.

 

Major Steve Lewis RM, Officer Commanding R-Squadron, said: “Exercise Driven Defender provided R-Squadron, 43 Commando, an opportunity to conduct challenging role training in a variety of complex and novel training environments across the UK following the cancellation of the original US based version of this exercise.

 

“Through a mixture of agile planning and innovative training design R-Squadron delivered realistic, high-end training whilst remaining aligned with the fluid national COVID control situation. The training activity comprising dismounted, vehicle mounted, and Helicopter Assault operations extensively tested the participating highly skilled, specialist commando forces.”

 

Under the cover of darkness, troops fought through a multi-storey building in pitch blackness taking down any threats hindering their mission.

 

Using every trick in their book, together with rapid, relentless and overwhelming force, the marines successfully overcame all hurdles the ‘enemy’ had for them.

 

Following this, the commandos moved to a former bunker in the South West where they carried out training missions hundreds of metres underground in a network of intersecting passages and railway tunnels.

 

The commandos were told that a ‘high-value asset’ had been taken deep into the bunker and employing a range of their combat skills, were tasked with defeating their adversary and liberating the asset, combining technology and agile thought to produce success.

 

The Faslane-based marines followed this up with close-quarter battle training at Wakefield Armed Police College, moving to the target area as a Helicopter Assault Force via CH47 Chinook before clearing through buildings testing their method of entry abilities to provide operational assurance in built-up environments.

 

Not resting on their laurels, the commandos moved onto their next scenario which saw an enemy preparing to fly out high-value assets.

 

Observation posts were positioned and a recce was carried out on RAF Woodvale, on Merseyside, determining enemy movements and positions, calculating the best way of taking down the threat without risking the safety of the assets.

 

The following day at first light and again deploying as a Helicopter Assault Force via Puma helicopters, the commandos struck, taking the runway and securing the base before their adversary could leave with the stolen assets.

 

Quick Reaction Forces were tasked with clearing aircraft hangars and taking down well-protected enemy positions throughout the training area.

 

The exercise reached its conclusion with troops conducting close-quarters battle training, using simulated and live ammunition in Fort Blockhouse in Gosport.

 

This realistic and confined activity concluded an excellent and varied mission specific training package, ultimately assuring the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

 

“This exercise has revalidated the high levels of knowledge, skills and ability required of each marine within R-Squadron allowing them to take their place with confidence delivering in support of the unit nuclear security mission,” added Maj Lewis.

 

23 October 2020

 

Photos: Royal Navy MOD/Copyright 2020

The Commando memorial at Spean Bridge, Lochaber, Scotland with the Grey Corries in the background

Westland Commando Mk.IV of the Royal Navy at Duxford on 12th October 2003.

Para-Commandos during a casualty evacuation demonstration – 19th September 2013

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