Royal Marines play crucial role in Sudan evacuation 28 April 2023 Storyline: Royal Marines Royal Marines are playing a crucial role in supporting the UK Government’s efforts to evacuate British nationals from Sudan. Bravo Company of Taunton-based 40 Commando are deployed forward to the capital Khartoum and have established themselves at Wadi Seidna airport just outside the city. The commandos are working closely with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and colleagues from across the Commando Force, the Army, 16 Air Assault Brigade and the Royal Air Force to help evacuees as RAF C130 Hercules and A400M Atlas aircraft fly entitled persons out of Sudan. They are working around the clock in relentless heat. Major Ric Cole, of the UK Commando Force, said: “UK Commando Forces and 16 Air Assault Brigade, working closely with the Joint Force Headquarters and the Royal Air Force, have been deployed to Cyprus and Sudan to support the FCDO with the evacuation of British citizens. “This operation again demonstrates the value of Very High Readiness forces that can operate in complex and politically sensitive situations. Elements of the UK Commando Force deployed within hours, integrating seamlessly into a Joint Force package and providing military options to Government decision makers.” “Young commandos, many on their first operational deployment, approaching this challenging mission with the highest levels of professionalism – and the good humour and compassion we would expect from a Royal Marine.” The Command Team from Plymouth-based 42 Commando has also arrived in Sudan, as part of a force in Port Sudan that was in position as HMS Lancaster arrived on the Red Sea coast. The frigate will give the UK a command and control capability and a protective platform in the region. The operation is being supported by Headquarters Commando Forces in Stonehouse Barracks in Plymouth. Explore Units Royal Marines 3 Commando Brigade 40 Commando
