40 Commando, An in-depth analysis.

 Report on 40 Commando Royal Marines

Introduction: 40 Commando Royal Marines is one of the frontline infantry units within the Royal Marine Commandos, a renowned amphibious warfare force of the British Armed Forces. This report provides an in-depth analysis of 40 Commando, covering its history, organization, weaponry, tactics, positions of power, and notable actions.

History: Formed during World War II in 1942, 40 Commando has a rich and storied history of serving in various conflicts and operations around the world. Initially raised for amphibious raids against Axis forces, the commando unit has since evolved into a highly versatile and adaptable force capable of undertaking a wide range of missions.

Throughout its history, 40 Commando has been deployed to numerous theaters of operation, including Europe, the Falkland Islands, the Middle East, and Afghanistan. It has earned a reputation for its professionalism, courage, and effectiveness in combat, contributing significantly to the success of British military operations.

Organization: 40 Commando is structured into several specialized companies, each with distinct roles and responsibilities:

  1. Alpha Company: Typically serves as the close combat element, specializing in offensive operations such as amphibious assaults, raids, and direct action missions.

  2. Bravo Company: Often tasked with providing fire support and maneuver capabilities, including mortar and machine gun sections, to enhance the commando's operational effectiveness.

  3. Charlie Company: Primarily focuses on reconnaissance and surveillance operations, gathering critical intelligence to inform decision-making and planning.

  4. Delta Company: Specializes in supporting arms, including engineers, signals, and logistics, ensuring the commando's ability to sustain operations in the field.

Each company within 40 Commando is led by experienced officers and non-commissioned officers, who oversee the training, readiness, and operational deployment of their respective units.

Weapons: 40 Commando is equipped with a range of modern weaponry, including:

  1. L85A2 Assault Rifle: Standard-issue rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, providing accuracy and reliability in combat situations.

  2. L110A2 Light Machine Gun (LMG): Used for providing suppressive fire and supporting infantry movements, particularly in offensive operations.

  3. L7A2 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG): Employed for sustained fire support and engaging enemy positions at extended ranges.

  4. Javelin Anti-Tank Missile: Utilized to neutralize armored vehicles and fortified positions, enhancing the commando's anti-armor capabilities.

  5. Various Grenade Launchers and Sidearms: Including under-barrel grenade launchers and pistols for close-quarters combat and personal defense.

Tactics: 40 Commando employs a variety of tactics to achieve mission success in diverse operational environments:

  1. Amphibious Assaults: Leveraging their expertise in amphibious warfare, the commando conducts swift and coordinated assaults from sea to land, seizing and securing objectives in hostile territory.

  2. Close Quarters Battle (CQB): Trained in CQB techniques, 40 Commando excels in clearing buildings, ships, and other confined spaces, often encountered in urban or maritime environments.

  3. Reconnaissance and Surveillance: Utilizing advanced reconnaissance assets and techniques, the commando gathers vital intelligence on enemy movements, terrain, and potential threats, enabling informed decision-making and precise execution of operations.

  4. Fire and Maneuver: Employing a combination of fire support and maneuver tactics, 40 Commando suppresses enemy positions while maneuvering to outflank and overwhelm adversaries, seizing the initiative on the battlefield.

  5. Combined Arms Operations: Collaborating closely with other military branches, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the commando integrates combined arms tactics to exploit the strengths of each service and achieve synergistic effects in combat.

Positions of Power: Key positions within 40 Commando include:

  1. Commanding Officer (CO): Responsible for overall command and leadership of the unit, overseeing its training, operations, and welfare.

  2. Second-in-Command (2IC): Assists the CO in the management and administration of the commando, often assuming command in the CO's absence.

  3. Company Commanders: Lead the individual companies within 40 Commando, responsible for their training, discipline, and operational readiness.

  4. Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs): Provide vital leadership and guidance to junior Marines, ensuring effective communication and cohesion within the unit.

Notable Actions: Over the years, 40 Commando has been involved in several notable actions and operations, including:

  1. Operation Corporate (Falklands War, 1982): Deployed to the Falkland Islands as part of the British task force to recapture the territory from Argentine forces, playing a crucial role in securing key objectives and achieving victory.

  2. Operation Herrick (Afghanistan, 2001-2014): Conducted multiple deployments to Afghanistan in support of NATO-led counter-insurgency operations, engaging Taliban insurgents and providing security and stability to the region.

  3. Operation Telic (Iraq, 2003-2009): Deployed to Iraq as part of the multinational coalition forces, participating in combat operations, peacekeeping, and stabilization efforts following the invasion of Iraq.

  4. Counter-Piracy Operations (Somalia, Gulf of Aden): Contributed to international efforts to combat piracy off the coast of Somalia, conducting maritime patrols and boarding operations to deter and disrupt pirate activities.

These actions highlight the professionalism, bravery, and dedication of 40 Commando Royal Marines in fulfilling their mission to protect national interests and promote peace and security worldwide.

Conclusion: In conclusion, 40 Commando Royal Marines stands as a highly trained and combat-proven unit within the British Armed Forces, renowned for its operational excellence, versatility, and unwavering commitment to duty. Through its distinguished history, advanced training, and effective utilization of weapons and tactics, the commando remains a formidable force capable of meeting the challenges of modern warfare and safeguarding national interests at home and abroad.


- Noel Hands

Gosport RM

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