The Royal Marines Commandos have undergone an incredible transformation in recent decades, adapting to the shifting demands of modern warfare. Once known as Cold War Arctic warriors, they now find themselves reimagined as a high-tech, forward-deployed force, prepared to tackle the complex challenges of great power competition.
From Cold War Defenders to Falklands Heroes
During the Cold War, the Royal Marines Commandos were positioned as NATO’s northern flank, specialising in Arctic warfare to defend against a potential Soviet invasion. With training centred around the frigid conditions of Norway, they developed a reputation as the UK’s Arctic warfare experts.
This capability was put to the test in 1982 during the Falklands War. Following Argentina’s invasion of the islands, a British amphibious task force, led by 3 Commando Brigade, launched a daring assault. The Royal Marines were central to the operation, “yomping” across treacherous terrain to reclaim the islands. The successful recapture of the Falklands cemented their reputation as elite amphibious forces, with the green beret becoming a symbol of courage and resilience.
Adapting to New Environments: Iraq and Afghanistan
As the Cold War ended, the Royal Marines found themselves on a different kind of battlefield. In Iraq, they launched a successful amphibious assault during the 2003 invasion, securing key infrastructure. However, it was their involvement in Afghanistan that would stretch their capabilities. From 2002 to 2014, Commandos operated in Helmand Province, trading Arctic cold for desert heat, and amphibious assault for land-based combat. Despite significant casualties, the Royal Marines continued to excel, earning numerous gallantry awards.
The Future Commando Force: A Modern Transformation
By the mid-2010s, the shifting global landscape demanded a modernisation of the Royal Marines. The emergence of great-power competition and grey zone conflicts led to the creation of the Future Commando Force (FCF), a radical overhaul of the Commandos’ structure and tactics. This transformation focuses on small, highly versatile strike teams, ready to deploy quickly for a variety of missions, from combat to humanitarian aid. The FCF reflects a return to the Royal Marines’ roots, adaptability, mobility, and rapid response—while integrating cutting-edge technology.
Littoral Response Groups (LRGs) were established, with the Royal Navy designating two groups to operate in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. These groups, supported by amphibious ships, provide a constant and flexible presence in key strategic areas. Meanwhile, Commando units have been restructured into smaller, more mobile strike companies that can swiftly respond to crises worldwide.
Innovation and Integration: New Tools for a New Era
The Royal Marines have embraced modern technologies to enhance their operations. Through the Autonomous Advance Force trials, Marines have worked alongside drones and robotic systems to improve surveillance, logistics, and mission execution. These innovations serve as force multipliers, not replacements, maintaining the Commando ethos of excellence while leveraging new capabilities.
Today, Commandos are equipped with advanced tools like quadcopters, night vision, and laser-guided fire support systems. Their uniforms have also evolved, with the MultiCam Commando Uniform 2020 offering enhanced functionality. Integration with UK Special Forces has deepened, with Royal Marines frequently serving alongside the Special Forces Support Group and contributing personnel to the Special Boat Service.
Global Reach: The Commandos of Today
The Royal Marines’ expertise in Arctic warfare remains crucial, especially with rising Russian activity in the High North. In 2022, over 1,000 Royal Marines participated in NATO’s Exercise Cold Response, showcasing their continued dominance in cold-weather operations.
The new Littoral Response Groups ensure that Commandos are always ready to deploy globally. With enhanced mobility, greater integration with technology, and the ability to respond quickly to diverse missions, the Royal Marines are once again the first force to act in crises.
Looking to the Future
The Royal Marines are no longer just about Arctic warfare or amphibious assaults. They are a high-tech, adaptable force prepared for a range of challenges, from counter-terrorism to disaster relief. Their enduring commitment to the Commando Spirit, courage, determination, and unselfishness, remains their bedrock.
In an era of complex global threats, the Royal Marines are more relevant than ever. They continue to embody the agility, resilience, and adaptability that have defined them for decades. Whether in the icy waters of the Arctic, the deserts of Afghanistan, or the littorals of the Indo-Pacific, the Royal Marines stand ready to face whatever challenges arise.
