The UK Commando Force (UKCF) has had a busy summer, deploying across several international locations.

Commando Sappers from 59 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers joined 40 Commando for Exercise Predators Run in Australia. Operating from RFA Lyme Bay and RFA Argus, the sappers provided critical explosive capabilities, demonstrating their versatility in challenging environments.

In addition to their Australian deployment, the sappers also assisted the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment in developing their Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities.

Their support included training in pioneering, team medic techniques, and the safe use of power tools. The UK forces worked closely with local units to enhance disaster preparedness.

Meanwhile, UK commandos conducted joint training with US Marine Corps units at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. Mljet Troop, P Squadron of 43 Commando, participated in close-quarter battle (CQB) training at the Marine Raider Training Centre, while snipers from the Surveillance Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS) completed advanced sniper training alongside their USMC Recon Sniper counterparts. This training involved testing new UKCF equipment, including advanced optics and helmets.

The SRS Snipers further strengthened ties with US Special Operations Forces by attending another advanced sniper course alongside the USMC, Navy SEALs, and US Army’s 19th Special Forces Group at Camp Pendleton.

These exercises aim to enhance interoperability and hone the combat readiness of both UK and US forces.

Alpha Company from 40 Commando also participated in Exercise Ssang Yong in South Korea, working with the US Marine Corps and Republic of Korea Navy SEALs in long-range raids and live joint fires serials, highlighting the global reach of UK commandos.

The United Kingdom Commando Force (UKCF) is a commando unit within the British Armed Forces, composed of Royal Marine Commandos and qualified personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force.

Established during the Second World War, the UKCF originally conducted operations in the South-East Asia theatre. After the war, the unit transitioned into a Royal Marine formation and has participated in key operations such as the Falklands War and the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Since its rebranding to the UKCF in 2024, the force has continued to operate in a variety of military contexts, specialising in amphibious assaults, reconnaissance, and international military partnerships. Headquartered in Plymouth, the UKCF remains an essential part of British military strategy, with units like 40 Commando and 42 Commando continuing to play critical roles in global operations.

The force’s deployments reflect its evolving nature, maintaining its tradition of excellence in warfare while expanding its role in humanitarian and international defence efforts.

George Allison
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison

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