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Gunnery and Repository

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Restructuring the Royals

In 1962 the 3rd Commando Brigade reorganised in order to meet the demands of modern warfare.

The Corps adopted the Army battalion structure of organisation in order to provide each Commando unit with more independence and the capacity to train young officers.

The new Commandos were twice the size of those in World War Two with around 640 men of all ranks.

Commando Gunners on exercise in the USA transporting a 105mm gun across Medicine Bluff Creek, August 1963. (RMM)
Commando Gunners on exercise in the USA transporting a 105mm gun across Medicine Bluff Creek, August 1963. (RMM)

Each unit had its own Headquarters with signals, transport and administrative troops to provide services for each Commando.

The units were also supported by their own rifle and mortar companies, a recce troop in ΒΌ ton vehicles and assault engineers.

Officials recognised the need for organic artillery support for the brigade.

In 1961 the 29th Field Regiment Royal Artillery reformed as the 29th Commando Light Regiment RA.

To qualify, the Royal Artillery Commandos also had to complete the Commando course as they must be able to go and do everything required of them in support of their unit.

RA Commandos have fought alongside the Royal Marines in all major conflicts of the Post War period.

Helicopter drill performed by 29 Commando Regiment RA at Citadel, Plymouth 1973. (RMM)
Helicopter drill performed by 29 Commando Regiment RA at Citadel, Plymouth 1973. (RMM)



Follow the links to find out more about -

  • Sea service

  • Amphibious capabilities - Landing craft and Commando carriers and Assault ships.

  • Gunnery and repository

  • Anti-terrorism in the Middle East - Palestine and Aden

  • Jungle Warfare - Malaya, Brunei and Borneo

  • Anti-terrorism in Europe - Cyprus and Northern Ireland

  • Flying Marines