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Organisation / Units & Squadrons
43 Commando
Organisation / Units & Squadrons

43 Commando

43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines is a 550-strong Unit based at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland.

Role

43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines have a vital core mission: preventing unauthorised access to the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent. They work on operations in the UK, and refine their skills through continuous training exercises at home and abroad.

The unit is also part of 3 Commando Brigade, the UK’s high-readiness expeditionary amphibious force. From counter-piracy and counter-narcotics to maritime interdiction operations, 3 Commando Brigade protects, secures and safeguards across the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean.

Capability

From snipers who can disable a moving speedboat from a pursuit helicopter, through to close combat and cold-weather warfare specialists, 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines are the elite warriors who protect the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent.

The unit works closely with the Ministry Of Defence (MOD) Police but also supports the Atomic Weapons Establishment, US Marine Corps and US Coast Guard.

Ready and able 24/7/365, 43 Commando delivers specialist capability in a uniquely complex urban, maritime, industrial environment.

Crew

Led by Colonel A. L. de Reya, O and P Squadrons specialise in waterfront nuclear security, while R Squadron focus on dynamic nuclear security on the Clyde and throughout the UK. Skills include: 

  • Close Quarter Battle
  • Waterfront nuclear security
  • Dynamic nuclear security on the Clyde and throughout the UK
  • Specialist military capability within a complex urban, maritime, industrial environment
  • Cold weather warfare – the Royal Marines of 43 Commando are deployed on the Royal Navy’s ice ship HMS Protector
  • Maritime boarding and snipers.

 

Unit history

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