UK Commando forces practice raiding in Baltic Sea

Recently, 539 Raiding Squadron (539 RS) of the 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines has been conducting extensive training exercises in the Baltic Sea as part of Exercise Baltic Phoenix, operating from RFA Mounts Bay,

The exercises focused on perfecting docking and craning processes, as well as integrating with Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) counterparts in preparation for future contingency operations.

539 Raiding Squadron, integral to 3 Commando Brigade, provides essential amphibious movement capabilities, delivering troops from water to land and patrolling waterways.

Recently, 539 Raiding Sqn have been in the Baltic Sea on Ex BALTIC PHOENIX operating from @RFAMountsBay

They have been perfecting their docking and craning processes, as well as integrating with our RFA counterparts in preparation for contingency operations.

Global Modern Ready pic.twitter.com/rx8Entp3Nr

— 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines (@47CdoRM) July 16, 2024

The squadron, based at the Royal Marines Tamar complex at HMNB Devonport, plays a crucial role in operational readiness and response.

Exercise Baltic Phoenix is part of the squadron’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance its amphibious capabilities. The squadron’s training included mastering docking procedures, honing craning techniques, and ensuring seamless coordination with RFA Mounts Bay. This training is vital for ensuring that the unit is prepared for a range of operational scenarios.

539 Raiding Squadron is named in honour of the famous 539 Assault Flotilla, which played a significant role during the Invasion of Normandy on Gold Beach. Renamed 539 Raiding Squadron in November 2019, the unit continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in amphibious operations.

The recent training in the Baltic Sea underscores the squadron’s commitment to ensuring that they can effectively support 3 Commando Brigade and the Royal Marines in a variety of operational contexts.