47 Commando Raiding Group RM
Winter Deployment
by Capt J Ross RM, 539RS
LCVPs and IRCs in the Norwegian fjords
This winter, a mixed Boat Group (BG) from 539 and 4 Raiding Squadrons deployed to the High North. For most it was their first experience of the hostile Arctic littoral and for others it was a welcome return to the epic landscapes and waterways. Operating the craft in below freezing temperatures offers challenges not seen elsewhere, ranging from on-theperson kit freezing, to craft getting frozen to sea ice: lessons that cannot be learned back home in the UK.
The BG adapted quickly to the arduous conditions, conducting a four-week training package, building from the basics, through to Live Fire Tactical Training, Littoral Access Point (Reconnaissance) and culminating in a raid on a Norwegian communications mast.
After a week of Alpine skiing (as part of an Adventurous Training package), the BG embarked RFA Lyme Bay to participate in Ex Joint Viking, operating with 45 Cdo RM and supporting them with surface manoeuvre through the network of Fjords around Senja.
The deployment has generated a proficient BG now capable of operating in the Arctic littoral, based either from the shore or the sea in support of Commando Operations.
RN Ski Championships
by Cpl Whitaker
Negotiating the slalom course
Recruits’ amphibious training phase
A steady start to 2025 provided the perfect opportunity to swap the surf for the slopes and go ‘out troops’ in the French Alps for the Royal Navy Ski Championships. Held once again in Les Deux Alpes, France, it will be a tough location to match when the competition moves to Tignes in 2026. Spending two weeks on the mountains made a huge difference in my progression, which even culminated in a silver medal in the Non-expert Slopestyle category. The chance to ride with the Royal Navy Snowboarding Team in the second week was an eye-opener to the level required at the top.
With the Championships wrapped up, it was back to Plymouth for the Initial Amphibious Foundation Training team to deliver training to Commando Training Centre recruits, which has seen some notable changes recently. The most significant shift has been the transition from 539RSRM providing coxswains and enablers to the reformation of Neptune Tp as part of 10 Sqn.