Year in the Life - 3 Cdo Bde

Supporting 3 Commando Brigade during the COVID-19 pandemic

OC: Maj J Sewell REME. 2IC: Capt B Carter REME

ES Squadron, Commando Logistic Regiment

Scribe: Capt Carter

HYDRA, this time practising CQB, fort assaults and helicopter extractions. Traditionally heavily involved in Norway, this year the Sqn provided RLS before and after Christmas for Ex AQUILA 21 and exercising troops. Finally, the Brigade validation of the LTG was Commando Logistic Regiment (CLR) Royal Marines (RM) Equipment Support Squadron (ES Sqn) provides Level 3 Equipment Support and Level 2 reinforcement to Units within 3 Commando Brigade. The Sqn is held at R2 as part of the Lead achieved in May with Ex GREEN DRAGON, proceeded by training exercises of GREEN GECKO and GREEN LIZARD. These series of experimental exercises were the first time the CSS Troops were formed and refined as part of the FCF construct. Commando Group (LCG). This year has been an extremely busy one, not just with the complexity of being at R2 during the COVID-19 pandemic but also the transition of 3 Cdo X to a Future Commando Force (FCF). Though the majority of ES ranks are Royal Marines, there are opportunities for REME personnel with currently 12 serving in the Sqn.

Throughout May 20 to Jul 21 the Sqn has deployed on many exercises and deployments. The first, Ex GREEN HYDRA in May 20 was a testing 2week CT1 and MATTs package in Sennybridge. The requirement for CLR to remain at R2 meant that the Sqn was able to train during this uncertain period. The ES Sqn also deployed as part of the Logistic Task Group on Ex DOCTRINE DRAGON; a small-scale exercise testing the unit’s readiness. There was also plenty of activity in barracks too, with VMs tasked to repair BFAs on standby for Op RESCRIPT, Tels Techs using our state-of-the art 3D printing facilities to print face visors for NHS workers. In September the Sqn were exercising again on Ex COMMANDO Dry Firing CQB training CQB simulation training

End Ex

Quad bike under repair, using a wiring diagram on a ModNet tablet

the driving force behind the new equipment being procured and the courses we are trialling. Advanced Battle Damage Repair courses will mitigate our ES Mat burden, modular and interoperable tooling across CEGs has force multiplied the effect of our FRTs, the use of MODNET enabled iPads in the hands of Class 1’s has streamlined processes and improved situational awareness from the most junior level. The role of an Artificer in a CSS Tp offers distinctive experiences and encounters. As the ES IC (and 2IC to the Tp Comd) for this strategic asset working at reach, and potentially in isolation, the breadth of involvement and effect you can have in the planning and execution is unique to this role. For budding (and current) Artificers who have a desire to work with Commando Forces and be part of this special environment, I wholly recommend CLR as a posting.

TROOP COMMAND EXPERIENCES – LT HARPER & PATEL

Lt Harper, V&G Troop Commander

ARTIFICER PERSPECTIVE – SSGT CROWE

I have the honour of holding the role of Artificer for the Bde’s Forward Repair Group (FRG); a task historically filled by a Royal Marine VM. Typically operating out of BV 206 FRTs and SVRs, the 26 pax strong Troop is aligned to support the Lead Commando Group (LCG) and is being heavily utilised for the newly formed CSS Troop. With this change in employment model comes opportunity and development; the introduction and development of innovative methods to deliver ES, as well as the overseas deployments to test and refine concepts.

Concurrently, the FRG is tasked with the delivery of the Bde’s Viking Reduction Project; the requirement of regenerating 27 ATP(V) for submission into Controlled Humidity Environment (CHE). Although a sizeable challenge on paper, but theoretically achievable, this project has been the perfect way to build cohesion, establish a healthy battle rhythm, develop and progress trade classes and allow the Troop to aim towards a common goal. Numerous factors will prevent the project from being a full success, namely the depth and complexities of the issues with the vehicle, but also an initial lack of SQEP, the conflicting priorities presented whilst being held at ‘Very High Readiness’ and a crippling deficit of ES Mat. It has tested my resilience and may have been the source of a few ‘flashes’, but it has served as an incredible tool for both professional and personal development.

As we reconstruct and rebrand into the Commando Force, so too must we adapt as a Regt and Sqn. Fast and Agile, disaggregated by design; the underlining premise of how we will be employed as a force and as ES ranks. It is Ex AQUILA 21 was not the usual annual deployment to Norway. As has been the case for everyone, COVID-19 played a major part in what CLR were able to do once deployed. Consequently, a smaller cohort than usual deployed to Bardufoss, Norway with the intent to complete Cold Weather Warfare / Survival courses (CWWC/CWSC) and other environment specific courses in order to facilitate the 2021/22 deployment to Norway.

Once deployed it was apparent that COVID-19 was going to dictate how much freedom deployed personnel could have. As soon as we departed the plane, we were subject to COVID testing, somewhat more thorough than in the UK, and put into rooms of between 4-6 people. Here we remained inside with food being delivered to us for the next 2 weeks. From there everyone was then exposed to the average -15°C temperature and allowed to start their CWWC/CWSCs and subsequent courses thereafter. The CWWC consists of 3 weeks; The first week is the survival week, acclimatising to sleeping in a 10-man tent, 4-man tent and then a survival night using the local area along with basic cross-country skiing. The second week consists of mobility training. This gets the Marines used to longer cross-country skiing with more weight and pulling pulks. It also introduces them to the tactics specific to the Cold Weather Environment (CWE). The final week of the CWWC is the tactical week. This consists of large company moves, utilising the ground to their advantage and to be an effective fighting force in the CWE.

Throughout the deployment we were in the eyes of the local media and were only allowed the freedom of leaving the camp nearing the end of the 3-month deployment. This restricted physical activity opportunities such as skiing and longer runs. However, an artic half marathon was organised with 52 of the finest 3CDO X has to offer partaking and was deemed a huge success with some impressive times being displayed.

Being posted to the CLR was both daunting and exciting at the same time. Exciting to command Royal Marine Commandos but daunting to attempt the arduous All Arms Commando Course. To be eligible to start AACC you must complete an AACC Conditioning package (beat up) which runs for 4 weeks. This can be done either with CLR, 24 Cdo or 29 Cdo. The beat up brings you to the start state standard of the course which is to be able to climb a 30ft rope, complete a lap of bottom field in under 5 mins and a 200m fireman carry in under 90 secs. They also throw in a Royal Marines Basic Fitness Test (RMBFT) and Swim Test all in one day.

Once you pass these initial tests, you secure a position on the AACC which is now an 11-week course. Weeks 1-6 will see you on the infamous bottom field every morning, building to the bottom field pass off at the end of week 6 which is - being able to climb a 30ft rope, a lap of bottom field in under 5 mins, 200m fireman carry in under 90 secs, a full regain. All tests are completed carrying 21 lbs and a rifle. Amongst all of this, you deploy into the field to conduct basic navigation and section level tactics culminating with the week 5 nav test whilst in the field.

Failure to complete the nav in under 90 mins means removal from the course. At the start of week 7 you complete the 6 mile speed march signifying the start of the “Commando Phase”. This means you switch your head dress from beret to cap comforter and double everywhere. It also means the start of the Commando tests with test week being week 11. The 4 commando tests being: 1. Endurance Course 2. Tarzan Assault Course 3. 9 mile Speed March 4. 30 miler.

Test week starts a day after final exercise and ends with the 30 miler which is when you are presented your Green beret if successful in all of the tests.

AdM – CPL PARKES

ES Sqn, CLR has been the lead in trialling the concept of Additive Manufacturing (AdM) for 3 Cdo Bde for the last 3 years. In the past 12 months the ES Sqn has made great progress with its ability to produce parts and has several prototypes awaiting stress testing from the Testing and Development Unit (TDU) to see if they can be used as spares or as a Battle Damage Repair (BDR) alternative.

ES Sqn has several AdM printers and the ability to print in a number of different materials. These range from Onyx to carbon fibre, Kevlar and heat resistant plastics. Having the scope to print in different materials has led to the department now producing parts for a range of platforms.

Over the last year the Squadron has seen large investment in new equipment and training for soldiers. In April last year we acquired a new high-powered workstation to run Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and an Artec Leo scanner. The Artec Leo Scanner gave us the ability to scan equipment in full and use the scanned model to design replacement parts.

Recently on Ex GREEN DRAGON, numerous opportunities arose to utilise the AdM capability. Notably in the manufacture of a Land Rover slave cylinder rod clip. During a night-time clutch change the clip went missing. The Tels Techs were able to design and print a new clip within 4 hours having only a basic AESP drawing as reference. A spare clip was not taken out as part of the spares Force Element Table (FET) that would normally be carried on ship. This showcased the vital role that AdM will play in future deployment in enabling fast production of parts and the ability to carry less spares out on the ground.

Alongside the AdM concept the ES Sqn has also been experimenting with Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) repair. Members of the team identified some common faults coming into the workshop, notably snapped arms due to the drones crashing into objects then falling from the sky and breaking on impact with the ground. The solution from the Tels Techs was to produce covers for the propellers, which don’t hinder performance and prevent damage to the blades. The Prints have been successful in early testing and are currently awaiting Field trails by 40 Commando on Ex GREEN DAGGER (USA deployment) for final approval for their use.

To further aid to the RPAS capability, Tech Troop have printed cases for the phones used to pilot the drones. These cases can be mounted onto MOLLE straps and provide protection as well as rapid deployability of the piloting software.

Moving forward, the ES Sqn will continually look toward reducing the spares which are deployed on the ground. This will be done by testing new prototypes with the aim of creating a catalogue of parts that can be printed. The ES Sqn are also in the process of applying for funding for a CNC milling machine which can be used to produce parts out of metal. This will expand our capability, the range of materials available and is more deployable than any metal printer currently on the market.

Land Rover slave cylinder rod clip on the left and the 3D printed replacement on the right Blade protection made to prevent damage to the drone propellers

Phone cases which can be attached to body armour via MOLLE straps for piloting RPAS

The importance of Professional Registration in the Armed Forces

By incoming IET President, Air Marshal Sir Julian Young KBE CB FREng CEng FIET

Professional Registration is increasingly important in the Armed Forces and plays a signifi cant part in creating a competent and skilled work force across the UK. Qualifi cations and associated Continued Professional Development should help bridge the gap between military and civilian trades. Although simply being registered doesn’t guarantee ex-military engineers a job, it could level the playing fi eld and get someone an interview.

After a 40-year career in the Royal Air Force (RAF), I’ve always supported people developing themselves further through additional qualifi cations. The route often is through distance learning, which is hard work in a busy job. However, when you’re dipping into academia and then back into the workplace, the fi rst time you answer a question or write an essay, you are better in your role because you are instantly applying that new knowledge and thinking.

I led the team with the MOD and HM Treasury that helped the roll out of the Defence Engineer Registration Scheme (DERS) across diff erent branches within the Armed Forces; the scheme demonstrates clear value in people. The streamlined application process is excellent, and the Professional Engineering Institutions (PEIs) that step forward and take on the work to translate military skills and experience into qualifi cations will benefi t greatly from doing so. I’m proud to be a member of the IET, because when I started campaigning on professionalisation within the RAF some 15 years ago, it was the fi rst PEI to off er a streamlined route to Chartered Engineer (CEng). The IET for me was the RAF’s PEI of choice. Anything that can help streamline both the route of people into a PEI and the payment of fees is a positive.

As well as the DERS agreements, the IET is working hard to implement Central Payment Schemes in the Armed Forces. Having been successful with the RAF, with over 1,000 members Professionally Registered, we should be looking to roll Central Payment Schemes out for the other Services as widely as we can, including more companies in industry that already have had a lot of success with it. The IET welcomes engineers and technicians from all backgrounds; if you care about engineering in any or multiple sectors, the IET can be your professional home and has a unique position to fi ll. We need to be engaging with seniors and Fellows in all engineering organisations to promote the value in their people being Professionally Registered.

I’m looking forward to my term as IET President (2021-2022) and follow in the successful steps of all past Presidents. My specifi c area of focus will be to champion technicians and seek to facilitate the continued growth in their membership. I believe the majority of the ‘missing 3 million’ mentioned in Professor Uff ’s 2017 review of our engineering profession are technicians. We need to understand better what technicians are, what it means to be a technician and then off er them more through membership of the IET.

Find out more about becoming professionally registered by attending our latest webinar:

What you will learn:

– Benefi ts of membership and professional registration – Professional registration categories and application process – Our guidance and support

Eat, sleep, engineer, repeat

Julian’s President’s Address will be broadcast live on 14 October 2021 at 1pm BST