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30 Commando IX (Information Exploitation) Group Royal Marines
Former WO1(GSM) Peter Padley MBE
Formerly known as the United Kingdom Landing Force Command Support Group (UKLF CSG), which has supported the Corps on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan during the past decade. The recently renamed 30 Commando IX (Information Exploitation) Group Royal Marines can trace its historical roots back through 3 Commando Brigade’s HQ and Signal Squadron to WWII and the earliest days of Commando operations when Ian Fleming, of James Bond fame, created 30 Commando Assault Group – whose task was penetrate enemy lines and gather intelligence ahead of a main attack.
30 Commando is recognised as a multifunctional ‘information regiment’ which during peacetime operations has an establishment of approximately 450 personnel but when deployed on operations this number would increase considerably by other units being taken under command. 30 Commando’s task is to achieve information superiority within its allocated battlespace thus enabling 3 Commando Brigade to fulfil its task.
In order that 30 Commando can meet its capability requirements, these being to ensure the Commander 3 Commando Brigade has superior situational awareness that will allow him to make the correct tactical decisions to target the enemy’s key capabilities and achieve his aim, it is subdivided into four specialist squadrons:
Support Squadron
The majority of the Brigade Reconnaissance Squadron is located in Support Squadron. A highly trained unit that consists of deep reconnaissance specialists tasked with operating well in advance of the brigade to gather and relay intelligence back to the brigade staff that would affect tactical decisions.
Y Squadron
Y Squadron is a dedicated electronic warfare squadron that has the capability to gather intelligence and to increase situational awareness by intercepting enemy communications systems.
Communications Squadron
It is Communications Squadrons responsibility to operate and maintain all the communication systems available to the Commander 3 Commando Brigade and his staff. When deployed into the field, or on operations, the squadron has responsibility for setting up and administering the Brigade Headquarters.
Logistics Squadron
As its name implies the role of Logistics Squadron is to Move, Sustain and Protect both the Brigade and 30 Commando Headquarters. As and when required sub units within the squadron have the capability to provide the Brigade Headquarters with air defence protection and unmanned aerial surveillance platforms.
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3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines (3 CDO BDE RM) Units
Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines (FPGRM)
539 Assault Squadron Royal Marines
Attached Army Units Under Command of 3 Commando Brigade
Commando units not under command of 3 Commando Brigade RM
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