Unique commando unit completes extensive live-action training to support helicopters in the field

An intensive workout on the Sennybridge ranges in central Wales – including extensive live-firing – served as the final hurdle for personnel from the Aviation Combat Service Support Squadron, normally based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.

The squadron has a wide-ranging mission to provide crucial ground support – aviation fuel, equipment and logistical support, catering and treatment for any casualties among other tasks – to the Commando Helicopter Force when its Merlins and Wildcats are operating in the field.

The squadron’s Ground Mobility Troop is expected to find, secure and – when necessary – defend remote and often exposed small forward bases whatever the mission across the full spectrum of operations: from crisis response and littoral raids through to high-intensity conflict.

These ‘vital nodes’ – known as tactical FRPs (Forward Refuelling Points) – require around 290 personnel, a force protection team, communications experts and enough combat supplies (water, fuel, ammunition and rations) to sustain operations.

The Ground Mobility Troop has been conducting months of progressive training in the UK building up to Exercise Jackal Dawn, the validation of its force protection skills and abilities.

Four Jackal armoured vehicles and a couple of trucks were committed on the Sennybridge Training Area in Powys, covering 48 square miles, bigger than Burnley or three times the size of Portsmouth.

Despite weighing 6½ tonnes Jackals are fast (top speed 80mph), highly-manoeuvrable and ideal for deep reconnaissance missions or force protection duties, armed with either a .50 calibre Heavy Machine Gun or the lighter 7.62mm General Purpose Machine Gun (or both).

Personnel faced a series of demanding serials focused on navigation, communications, command and control, tactical movement, live-fire manoeuvre and force protection.

The training tested both mounted and dismounted close combat, reflecting the conditions likely to be encountered during future Commando Force operations.

“The exercise represents the culmination of months of dedicated training by the Royal Marines of the Aviation Combat Service Support Squadron’s Ground Mobility Troop,” said Lieutenant Oliver ‘Smudge’ Smith RM, Officer Commanding Ground Mobility Troop.

“Conducting live-fire tactical manoeuvre training at Sennybridge has enabled our personnel to demonstrate the professionalism, tactical competence and fighting spirit required to operate effectively in complex environments.

“Most importantly, the exercise has validated our ability to provide robust force protection for aviation assets operating from tactical Forward Refuelling Points.

“This capability is fundamental to enabling Commando Helicopter Force aviation operations wherever the UK Commando Force is required to operate. The standards displayed throughout the exercise were exceptional."