Reserve sailors and marines complete intensive annual training

More than 150 personnel came together in Ballykinler for annual training aimed at developing essential skills and prepare the reserves for front-line duties.

Exercise Northern Star saw members from thirteen reserve units take part, along with RAF reserves from 502 Squadron and students from University Royal Naval Units.

For the first time a warship – in the form of P2000 patrol ship, HMS Biter – was added to the mix, bringing a new level of realism to the two-day training.

Commander Kurt Courtney, Commanding Officer of HMS Hibernia, highlighted the unique nature of Exercise Northern Star.

“This exercise is a rare opportunity to bring Maritime Reservists from across the UK together in one place, developing key skills in a dynamic and challenging environment,” he said.

“This year was particularly significant with the introduction of P2000, HMS Biter, adding a new maritime element to the training. 

“Another key aspect was employer engagement on the Saturday, allowing civilian employers to see first-hand the valuable skills their Reservists develop – skills that not only benefit military operations but are also highly transferable to their civilian careers. 

“The weekend’s structure ensures that Saturday focuses on skill development and refinement, while Sunday puts everything into action in a realistic operational scenario, mirroring the adaptability required when joining a ship or participating in an RN Operation.”

This year’s iteration saw participants engage in a variety of critical training activities, including vehicle stop and search, building clearance, first aid, weapons handling, and mass casualty evacuation. 

The exercise culminated in a complex Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation (NEO), simulating the extraction of British and NATO civilians from a conflict zone.

Northern Star was facilitated by HMS Hibernia, the Royal Naval Reserve’s Northern Ireland-based unit.

WO1 Andrew Holmes from RNR Training HQ said: “This is the third year I have attended Exercise Northern Star, and the exercise keeps growing, with more participants from the RAF, Royal Marines plus the URNU. 

“Having the URNU involved as role players, adds value to the training. 

“This kind of hands-on, practical experience is exactly what Reservists need and enjoy. While we aim to get Reservists to sea, this exercise provides a great opportunity to apply their training in a realistic setting. 

“On a personal level, it’s a fantastic weekend that everyone benefits from and enjoys.”

Lieutenant Jack McGillivray, Tay Division, HMS Scotia, has attended the exercise for three years.

He said: “I keep returning due to the unique nature of the weekend that allows you to test and refine your military skills, whilst engaging with Reservists from across the MR in an exercise that you don’t get anywhere else.”