Littoral Response Group(South)
The following article is taken from the latest issue of the Globe & Laurel magazine.
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The privilege to join a Commando Company as it embarks on an operational deployment is one few are granted on completion of training at CTCRM. This was further heightened as it was to be part of LRG(S)’s preparation for the inaugural deployment to the Indo-Pacific Region. We were aware of the unprecedented regional instability at the time of joining our first Unit and what a deployment to this region of the world could possibly entail.
After officially joining 40 Cdo RM, we flew to Cyprus and met the rest of the Coy Gp, embarking onto RFA Lyme Bay. This was the first time that all the elements of the Coy were brought together in one place, including force elements from across UKCF, as well as the wider UK Armed Forces, all commanded under A Coy HQ. As Junior Commanders, this exposure to a broad cross-section of Defence, ranging from Artillery to Military Working Dogs, provided ample opportunity to learn how other specialists conduct their business, broadening our own perspective.
Initially, the focus was on tactical planning based around a Noncombatant Evacuation Op (NEO) scenario, with a Surface Manoeuvre WADER package being run concurrently – Ex Cypriot Sword. This allowed embarked forces to practise the vital procedures of planning and deploying amphibious troops ashore; including ship to shore manoeuvres, cross-decking between a multitude of craft including the new variants of the Zodiacs (IRCs) and the innovative upgraded ORCS; the Commando Raiding Craft. Although familiar territory for many Commandos, this was a new experience to the attached ranks (and dogs). It was great to introduce them to the thrills of amphibious warfare; a Rifleman was overheard saying it was the best thing he had done since joining the Army – and five of them are now loaded on the next All Arms Course!
The Coy Gp then progressed onto the Aviation Manoeuvre phase of the WADER. This consisted of using RFA Argus’ three Merlin Mk4 helicopters to move ranks ashore, cycling back and forth from the ship to shore in a representative mission profile. In conjunction with the successful aviation WADER, A Coy successfully demonstrated the concept of driving an upgraded MRZR D4 (ultra-lightweight vehicle used by UKCF) into the back of a Merlin whilst embarked on ship. This develops options when conducting littoral operations as it allows the delivery and recovery of vehicles when no LAPs (Littoral Access Points) are available, as well as enabling the insertion of Commando Teams significantly further into the battlespace.
On conclusion of the aviation phase, conditions were set for the TACEX which consisted of a set of orders from the Coy OC around the NEO problem-set. Following Tp/Team orders, the next day the entire Coy inserted onto the Cypriot training area via Surface Manoeuvre (including vehicles). All training objectives were achieved on the TACEX, consisting of affirming use of the new radio system (MPU5), notably getting EVE (Enhanced Virtual Environment) working from ship to shore, establishing vehicle checkpoints with MRZR and a thorough run-out of NEO specifics such as evacuation handling centres and medical facilities. A thorough after-action review was then conducted ensuring that the TACEX proved incredibly useful and enhanced the cohesion and effectiveness of the Coy. RFA Lyme Bay then came alongside in Cyprus and all ranks enjoyed some well-earned time ashore.
Whilst embarked, the ranks of A Coy Gp were able to sharpen their skills in a variety of training serials run with the assistance of the specialist force elements who were able to assist with bespoke training centred around their unique skillsets. Teams 1 and 5 (FSG) spent their time brushing up on armoured fighting vehicle recognition, running interest lectures and practising heavy weapons drills on the flight deck. Teams 2 and 3 (Recce) ran a planning exercise for a recce patrol, while Team 4 took the lead on a CQB serial working with the military working dogs, clearing through areas of the ship in darkness and utilising the effective capabilities of a Belgian Malinois. The EOD and Search Team took all teams through personnel search lessons, whilst the medics onboard gave mission-specific lessons and demonstrations to enhance the effectiveness of the Coy in an operational environment.
The majority of A Coy Gp finished their time in Cyprus ashore conducting a two-week training package titled Ex Dhekelia Dagger. This included live firing up to Team LFTT, specialist courses, Battle PT and a focus on retaining a sharp warfighting edge after time embarked. Ex Dhekelia Dagger also allowed A Coy to dramatically swell its ranks of trained MRZR drivers, RPAS operators and C-UAS operators; essential skills to fight and win on the modern battlefield. This is a hugely exciting time to be serving in a Cdo Coy, and a privilege to command Commandos on operations straight from training.
Read more from the Journal of the Royal Marines
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