Medics have successfully conducted critical avalanche rescue training in Norway’s Helligskogen mountains, working alongside Norwegian emergency services in a highly realistic exercise.
According to a news update, medics were tested on their ability to locate, treat, and evacuate casualties buried in the snow—a vital skill for operating in the Arctic.
In the harsh winter terrain of Northern Norway, avalanches are a deadly threat, particularly after heavy snowfall. With the UK Commando Force deployed for Winter Deployment 25, Royal Navy medics must be fully prepared to respond to these emergencies.
The joint exercise saw British medics working side by side with Norwegian search and rescue teams, air ambulance services, and police, responding to a simulated avalanche disaster.
“I have taken part in multiple medical scenarios in the past few years, but nothing has compared to this exercise,” said Medical Assistant Madelaine Wilson in the update, part of 30 Commando’s Medical Section.
“It put everything into perspective of how fast you need to work in a cold weather environment. Shock can rapidly deteriorate into hypothermia or even hypothermic cardiac arrest, as seen in the training exercise.”
The exercise not only tested medical skills but also reinforced the importance of teamwork and coordination between British and Norwegian forces.
“The use of Norwegian services, especially the air ambulance, really made the exercise feel realistic and highlighted the importance of cohesion and good communication within the team,” Wilson added.
UK Forces Operating in the High North
The UK’s Winter Deployment 25 has brought nearly 2,000 personnel to Norway’s Arctic Circle, reinforcing Britain’s commitment to defending the High North.
Among those deployed are:
- Royal Marines
- 24 Commando Royal Engineers
- 29 Commando Royal Artillery
- Commando Helicopter Force
These units are honing their skills in Arctic warfare, ensuring they remain combat-ready for operations in extreme environments.
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This must be an extremely sought after job as it seems really interesting and you get to see some amazing scenery.
I’d love to do this and the sence of job satisfaction must be off the charts.