Future Commando Force

{{Quote box

| quote = The Royal Navy will invest £40m more over the next four years to develop our Future Commando Force ... to deliver a more agile and lethal littoral strike capability. Forward deployed to respond rapidly to crises, this special operations-capable force will operate alongside our allies and partners in areas of UK interest, ready to strike from the sea, pre-empt and deter sub-threshold activity, and counter state threats.

| source = Defence in a Competitive Age

| width = 25%

}}

Given that the FCF programme is ongoing, its form has not been finalised, and is subject to change. Currently, it models the Royal Marines as a new special operations capable maritime force.{{cite news |last1=Campbell |first1=Rebecca |title=Thoughts on the Future Commando Force |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/thoughts-on-the-future-commando-force |access-date=26 February 2022 |date=1 February 2021}} This force is to be expeditionary,{{cite news |last1=Nicholls |first1=Dominic |title=Royal Marines force US troops to surrender just days into training exercise |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/11/02/royal-marines-force-us-troops-surrender-just-hours-training |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=The Telegraph |date=2 November 2021}} provide a rapid response ability,{{cite news |title=Royal Marines warm up for Future Commando Force experimentation in Dorset |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/september/14/140920-40-commando-fcf-work |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=14 September 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Rosamond |first1=Jon |title=DSEI: Royal Marines Embrace Littoral Strike and Prepare to Forward Deploy |url=https://news.usni.org/2019/09/11/dsei-royal-marines-embrace-littoral-strike-and-prepare-to-forward-deploy |access-date=26 February 2022 |work=USNI News |date=11 September 2019}} and able work in littoral zones{{cite news |last1=Lye |first1=Harry |title=RUSI report investigates future UK amphibious forces role |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/rusi-report-investigates-future-uk-amphibious-forces-role |access-date=26 February 2022 |work=Naval Technology |date=21 November 2019}}{{cite news |title=Royal Navy amphibious warfare capability in flux {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-amphibious-warfare-capability-in-flux |access-date=26 February 2022 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=15 July 2020}} and grey zones.{{cite news |title=FCF AND THE GREY ZONE: CREATING AMBIGUITY |url=https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/fcf-and-the-grey-zone-creating-ambiguity |access-date=22 February 2022 |work=Puzzle Palace |date=24 January 2020}} Moreover, the FCF was created, in part, to counter coastal A2AD systems.{{cite news |title=Royal Navy amphibious warfare capability in flux {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-amphibious-warfare-capability-in-flux |access-date=22 February 2022 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=15 July 2020}}{{cite news |title=Commando 2035 - Sci-Fi or Reality? |url=https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/commando-2035-sci-fi-or-reality |access-date=24 February 2022 |work=Puzzle Palace |date=18 December 2019}}

The FCF programme has seen an increased focus on using technology to augment Royal Marine commandos, including tactical tablet kits,{{cite news |last1=Kumar |first1=Hemanth |last2=Talal |first2=Talal |title=Royal Marines test new technology for UK future commando force |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-marines-uk-future-commando-force |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=31 May 2019}} drones such as small Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) and cargo drones,{{cite news |title=Royal Navy looks to future following successful technology trials in 2020 |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/january/05/210105-technology-2020 |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=5 January 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=Royal Marines: How Drones Could Transform The Future Commando Force |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-how-drones-could-transform-future-commando-force |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=2 December 2020 |language=en}} throwbots,{{cite news |last1=Nicholls |first1=Dominic |title=Royal Marines test 'throwbots' in the tunnels of Gibraltar to develop Future Commando Force |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/11/16/royal-marines-use-throwbots-tunnels-gibraltar-develop-future |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=The Telegraph |date=16 November 2020}} and AI-enabled autonomous systems. Autonomous systems using AI technologies such as computer vision will also connect in mesh networks and MANETs to supply ISTAR to the Royal Marines in a single integrated platform.{{cite web |last1=Crouch |first1=Andy |title=UK Start-up leading delivery of 5G connectivity at sea |url=https://battle-updates.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/BSTC4iStar-Nov-2021-Digital.pdf |access-date=27 February 2022 |page=44}}{{cite news |title=Royal Navy partners with Anduril for Royal Marines' modernisation |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-modernise-marines-anduril |access-date=26 February 2022 |work=Naval Technology |date=11 June 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Marines get game-changing tech to save lives and win battles |url=https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/uk-world-news/royal-marines-game-changing-life-2961696 |access-date=26 February 2022 |work=PlymouthLive |date=10 June 2019 |language=en}} These new technologies are used to increase the effectivenes and lethality of Royal Marines,{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Use New Kit During Exercises In Gibraltar |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-use-new-kit-during-exercises-gibraltar |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=13 November 2020 |language=en}} while modern C4ISR/C5I equipment is used to enable more agile and decentralised operations and integrated with autonomous systems to inform and assist decision-making and commando operations, in keeping with the Royal Navy's wider Advanced Autonomous Force concept.

The renewal of equipment extends into new clothing and personal weapons for Royal Marines. Furthermore, new vehicles such as quadbikes{{cite news |title=Royal Marines trial new CanAm 6x6 all-terrain vehicles for motor exercises |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-marines-trial-new-canam-6x6-all-terrain-vehicles-for-motor-exercises |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=4 December 2020}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines roll-out new vehicles on mortar exercises |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/december/03/201203-45-commando-mortars |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=3 December 2020 |language=en}} and ships{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Royal Marines and Navy hail stealth ship after raid |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/royal-marines-navy-hail-nato-3805864 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=3 February 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Commandos raid alongside Norwegian stealth ship in the Arctic |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/january/31/310120-commandos-and-norwegians |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=31 January 2020 |language=en}} were trialled in exercises to develop the FCF as well as novel tactics, including an increased use of deception, working in teams of reduced sizes and of different compositions, and operating with greater agility and autonomy.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=Future Commando Force: Royal Marines Trial New Concepts |url=https://www.forces.net/news/future-commando-force-royal-marines-trial-new-concepts |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=2 September 2020 |language=en}}

The FCF is being developed in exercises; see the history section below for a detailed timeline. There have been numerous reports that there is not currently sufficient funding for the programme to be successful.{{cite book |last1=House of Commons Defence Committee |title=We're going to need a bigger Navy |date=7 December 2021 |page=34 |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5802/cmselect/cmdfence/168/report.html |access-date=21 February 2022 |quote=Evidence continues to show that sacrificing the Royal Navy's amphibious capability would be, in the words of our predecessor Committee, "a short-sighted, militarily illiterate manoeuvre totally at odds with strategic reality." Against this background we are concerned that the Future Commando Force and the Littoral Response Groups are not properly resourced to continue amphibious operations. The Department must confirm that it remains committed to retaining the Royal Marines’ amphibious capabilities.}}{{cite book |last1=National Audit Office |title=The Equipment Plan 2021 to 2031 |date=18 February 2022 |isbn=9781786044143 |page=24 |publisher=National Audit Office |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/report/the-equipment-plan-2021-to-2031 |access-date=21 February 2022 |quote=Similarly, early business cases for the New Medium Helicopter and Future Commando Force programmes show that these programmes are currently underfunded.}}{{cite news |last1=Sables |first1=Tom |title=Defence remains 'over-optimistic' with equipment plans, financial report suggests |url=https://www.forces.net/news/defence-remains-over-optimistic-equipment-plans-financial-report-suggests |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=Forces Network |language=en}} In addition to this, it has been estimated the FCF would have ~4,000 Royal Marines personnel from the existing force of ~7,000.{{cite web |last1=Devanny |first1=Joe |last2=John |first2=John |title=The Integrated Review In Context: Defence and Security in Focus |url=https://www.kcl.ac.uk/warstudies/assets/ir-in-context-defence-and-security-in-focus.pdf |access-date=26 February 2022 |date=11 October 2021 |quote=...the Royal Marines’ Future Commando Force, which is projected to have a strength of around 4,000, drawn from the Royal Marines’ existing strength of just over 7,000...}}{{cite web |title=F012020/08761 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/924544/FOI202008761_Regular_and_Reserves_2015-19_-_Redacted_Final.pdf |access-date=5 June 2022}}

{{See also|Littoral Response Group#Composition|United Kingdom Commando Force#Organization}}

The FCF is to form around the LRGs, specialised Royal Navy task groups that provide rapid strike capabilities in littoral zones and to counter grey zone and sub-threshold activity. They were to have been LRG(North), based in Europe and responsible for the Atlantic, Baltic, Arctic Ocean, and Mediterranean (i.e. north of the Suez Canal), and LRG(South), based in Oman and responsible for the Indo-Pacific and Persian Gulf (i.e. south of the Suez).{{cite news |title=Understanding the Royal Navy's littoral response group concept {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/understanding-the-royal-navy-littoral-response-group-concept |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=17 August 2021}}{{cite news |title=UK Littoral Response Group: the shape of things to come? |url=https://www.iiss.org/blogs/military-balance/2021/06/uk-littoral-response-group |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=IISS |date=25 June 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=British Littoral Response Group ships to be based in Oman |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/british-littoral-response-group-ships-to-be-based-in-oman/ |access-date=21 February 2022 |date=30 July 2021}} The LRGs were the implementation of the Navy's Littoral Strike concept.

File:UK Littoral Response Group (North), and USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group.jpg.]]

45 Commando and 40 Commando were each to contribute a company to form LRG(North) and LRG(South), respectively, in the form of new Strike Companies in the FCF - hence the name of the Vanguard Strike Company which tested FCF concepts in exercises.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=Future Commando Force: Marines Undergo Essential Marksmanship Training |url=https://www.forces.net/news/future-commando-force-marines-undergo-essential-marksmanship-training |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=18 March 2021 |language=en}} Furthermore, the structure of the FCF was outlined in evidence given to the House of Commons Defence Committee report We're going to need a bigger Navy as part of its inquiry The Navy: purpose and procurement:

{{Blockquote|text=Future Commando Force is reshaping each Commando into 4 STRIKE Companies, each of which, completed with supports from across 3rd Commando Brigade, makes up a Littoral Strike Unit (LSU), operating dispersed and embarked indicatively on a single ship. Multiple LSUs are meant to form a LRG. A minimum of 2 ships per group is needed; an Albion[-class] plus a [Bay[-class] is a reasonable composition and each Commando (45 Cdo for the North, 40 Cdo for the South) will be able to rotate the 2 forward-deployed companies to sustain the enduring commitment.|author=Gabriele Molinelli{{cite web |last1=Molinelli |first1=Gabriele |title=NAV0002 |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/35573/html |website=UK Parliament Committees |access-date=22 February 2022}}}}

Bay-class landing ships, however, are being upgraded and used only temporarily in place of the new Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) which are planned to enter service in the 2030s.{{cite web |title=Converting the Bay-class auxiliaries into littoral strike ships |url=https://www.navylookout.com/converting-the-bay-class-auxiliaries-into-littoral-strike-ships/ |website=Navy Lookout |date=27 July 2021 |access-date=23 September 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Bentham |first1=Jonathan |last2=Childs |first2=Nick |title=UK Littoral Response Group: the shape of things to come? |url=https://www.iiss.org/blogs/military-balance/2021/06/uk-littoral-response-group |access-date=23 September 2021 |work=IISS}}{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=The future Multi Role Support Ships |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-future-multi-role-support-ships |access-date=22 February 2022 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=23 March 2021}}

File:LRG Composition.svg

Each of the two LRGs were to consist of:{{cite news |title=Understanding the Royal Navy's littoral response group concept {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/understanding-the-royal-navy-littoral-response-group-concept |access-date=24 February 2022 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=17 August 2021}}{{cite web |title=Royal Marines Accelerating into the Future |url=https://www.dsei.co.uk/__media/libraries/south-theatre/ROYAL-NAVY-Royal-Marines-Accelerating-into-the-Future-Littoral-Strike-and-the-Future-Commando-Force.pdf |access-date=27 February 2022}}

• Littoral Strike Unit (LSU) of ~ 250 personnel
• Rotating "strike" company from 40 or 45 Commando
• Supporting personnel from the rest of 3 Commando Brigade
• Albion-class Landing Platform Dock (LPD)
• Bay-class Landing Ship Dock (LSD), termed a Littoral Strike Ship (LSS)
• Type 45 destroyer escort
• Further supporting ships and vessels

However, in November 2024, it was announced that both Albion-class vessels were to be removed from service by March 2025.

In April 2017, the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Philip Jones, announced that 42 Commando, one of the Commando units of 3 Commando Brigade, would become specialised in maritime operations.{{cite news |last1=Ministry of Defence |title=Royal Marines to be restructured in line with growing Royal Navy |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-marines-to-be-restructured-in-line-with-growing-royal-navy |access-date=12 November 2021 |work=GOV.UK |date=11 April 2017 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Jones |first1=Sam |title=Royal Marines cut by 200 as armed forces face staffing crisis |url=https://www.ft.com/content/8a6e2752-1ec7-11e7-b7d3-163f5a7f229c |access-date=12 November 2021 |work=Financial Times |date=11 April 2017}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines to lose 200 posts |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/apr/11/royal-marines-to-lose-200-posts |access-date=12 November 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=10 April 2017 |language=en}} The Littoral Strike and FCF concepts were established sometime before 2019, being mentioned in various publications from the British government and armed forces in late 2018.{{cite news |last1=Williamson |first1=Gavin |last2=Ministry of Defence |title=Modernising Defence Programme update |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/modernising-defence-programme-update |access-date=12 November 2021 |work=GOV.UK |date=18 December 2018 |language=en}}{{cite journal |title=October 2018 Navy News |journal=Navy News |date=29 October 2018 |page=4 |url=https://issuu.com/navynews/docs/201810 |access-date=12 November 2021 |language=en |issn=0028-1670 |oclc=70249744}} The internal documents Designing for the Future – A Transformational Concept, authored by the Commandant General Royal Marines on {{date|2 March 2018|MDY}}, and Generating and Operating 2 x Littoral Strike Groups, authored more generally within 3 Commando Brigade on {{date|10 December 2018|MDY}}, further detailed the Littoral Strike and FCF concepts, and followed wider discussions on how 40 and 45 Cdo should be restructured that had been ongoing since at least 2017.{{cite web |title='No Comms, No Bombs': Optimising the Signals Branch for the Future |url=https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/no-comms-no-bombs-optimising-the-signals-branch |website=Puzzle Palace |access-date=23 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220223141300/https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/no-comms-no-bombs-optimising-the-signals-branch |archive-date=23 February 2022 |date=25 July 2019}} Further development of both concepts was, in part, likely to help implement Boris Johnson's post-Brexit policy of "Global Britain", given the FCF's nature of forward deployment and special operations capability, the latter of which is pivotal to modern warfare.{{cite news |title=First Sea Lord talks future operations: Surface Warships 2021 |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/features/first-sea-lord-talks-future-operations-surface-warships-2021 |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=22 February 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Cooper |first1=Charlie |title=The man who knows what 'Global Britain' means |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/john-bew-global-britain-uk-eu/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=POLITICO |date=14 January 2021}}{{cite news |last1=McTague |first1=Tom |title=The 'Global Britain' Conundrum |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2021/06/britain-g7-boris-johnson/619163 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=The Atlantic |date=11 June 2021 |language=en}}

On {{date|11 February 2019|MDY}}, then-Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson described upcoming changes to the British Armed Forces, including the FCF, Littoral Strike concept, and LRGs.{{cite news |last1=Williamson |first1=Gavin |last2=Ministry of Defence |date=11 February 2019 |title=Defence in Global Britain |language=en |work=GOV.UK |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/defence-in-global-britain |access-date=13 November 2021}} He also used the speech to announce plans to buy two "Littoral Strike Ships" in support of the LRGs.{{cite news |last1=O'Leary |first1=Miles |title=Government announces deal to build new Royal Marine combat ships |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/government-armed-forces-ships-announcement-2531009 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=11 February 2019 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Frontline Tech: How Will Littoral Strike Ships Transform The Navy? |url=https://www.forces.net/technology/frontline-tech-how-will-littoral-strike-ships-transform-navy |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=19 February 2019 |language=en}}

In {{date|April 2019|MY}}, A Company, 40 Commando, and 1 Assault Group Royal Marines carried out Exercise Commando Warrior, which trialled the use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) and Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) in support of a beach assault, and tactical operations as a whole.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines use autonomous vehicles during Commando Warrior |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-marines-use-autonomous-vehicles-in-commando-warrior-exercise/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=29 Apr 2019}}{{cite news |title=The Royal Navy and NATO continue to rehearse and evolve amphibious capability {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navy-continues-to-evolve-its-amphibious-capability/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=4 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Axe |first1=David |title=British Royal Marines just stormed a beach with robot tanks for backup for the first time |url=https://taskandpurpose.com/news/british-royal-marines-just-stormed-a-beach-with-robot-tanks-for-backup-for-the-first-time/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Task & Purpose |date=24 May 2019}} It involved using integrated data from both systems being monitored remotely to test the "Autonomous Advanced Force" concept.{{cite news |title=The Royal Navy and Maritime Autonomous Systems – better late than never {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navy-and-maritime-autonomous-systems-better-late-than-never/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.navylookout.com |date=18 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Atkins |first1=Rachael |title=Royal Marines storm Cornwall beach with unmanned vehicles |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/royal-marines-storm-cornwall-beach-2798029 |access-date=13 November 2021 |date=25 April 2019 |work=PlymouthLive}}{{cite web |last1=Navy Lookout |title=Royal Marines - Future Commando Force |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8g_YxA7aGg |website=YouTube |access-date=13 November 2021 |language=en}}File:Royal Marines on Exercise Serpent Rock 2020 MOD 45167401.jpg

In {{date|May 2019|MY}}, members of 40 Commando began to carry out Exercise Commando Warrior Two, in which marines tested further technologies including AI-enabled systems, situational awareness pads, Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) tablets, and new radios.{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Navy shows off new battlefield tech on stealth mission |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/royal-navy-shows-new-battlefield-2927835 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=31 May 2019 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines take big step with new technology {{!}} Royal Navy |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/april/25/190425-commando-warrior |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=25 April 2019 |language=en}} 40 Commando again further developed the FCF during Exercise Talisman Sabre, taking place from {{date|June 2019|MY}} in Australia, in which they acted as an advanced reconnaissance and raiding force ahead of amphibious landings.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines go behind 'enemy' lines in Australia |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/july/19/19072019-royal-marines-in-australia |access-date=13 November 2021 |date=19 July 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Marines lead 34,000 in biggest beach landing since WWII |url=https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/uk-world-news/royal-navy-marines-lead-34000-3113018 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=19 July 2019 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines experiment in Australian outback |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/june/28/royal-marines-experiment-in-australia |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=28 June 2019 |language=en}}

In {{date|November 2019|MY}}, it was reported that the Royal Marines would adopt the C8 SFW, already in service with UKSF, as their standard rifle.{{cite news |last1=Fisher |first1=Lucy |title=Green beret is the sole survivor as Royal Marines get a modern makeover |url=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/defence/article/green-beret-is-the-sole-survivor-as-royal-marines-get-a-modern-makeover-phns5qmxk |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=The Times |date=4 November 2019 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Atlamazoglou |first1=Stavros |title=Royal Marines going back to their Special Operations roots |url=https://sofrep.com/news/royal-marines-going-back-to-their-special-operations-roots/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=SOFREP |date=13 November 2019 |language=en}} During the Autumn of 2019, the Royal Marines further trialled the FCF concept, enabling a larger conventional force from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) during the regular training Exercise Green Dagger.{{cite news |title=Commandos are the lethal tip of the spear on desert war games |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/november/11/191111-royal-marines-in-the-desert |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=11 November 2019 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Royal Marines hone future role leading USMC into battle |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/watch-royal-marines-hone-future-3612884 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=5 December 2019 |language=en}}{{cite web |last1=Royal Marines |title=Royal Marines and Army Commandos {{!}} Modern Warfare in the USA |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovViMLW_amA |website=YouTube |access-date=13 November 2021 |language=en}}

File:43-commando-hr.jpg using the L119A1 variant of the C8 in 2014.]]

In {{date|January 2020|MY}}, marines of 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines and 45 Commando performed exercises including a landing with their Norwegian counterparts and their Skjold-class corvettes, which were found to suit the FCF model, ahead of Exercise Cold Response 20, as well as testing other novel equipment for the FCF in "Project EVE".{{cite news |title=Commandos launch surprise raids on Norway coastline |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/march/16/200312-commandos-raiding-in-norway |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=16 March 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Assault Engineers on explosive Arctic missions |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/february/24/200224-arctic-assault-engineers |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=24 February 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Wallace |first1=Ben |last2=Ministry of Defence |title=Over 2,000 UK personnel deploy to Norway for major Arctic warfare exercise |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/over-2000-uk-personnel-deploy-to-norway-for-major-arctic-warfare-exercise |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=GOV.UK |date=25 February 2020 |language=en}} The exercise was, however, cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news |title=Exercise Involving UK Personnel Cancelled Over 'Out Of Control' Coronavirus |url=https://www.forces.net/news/exercise-involving-uk-personnel-cancelled-over-out-control-coronavirus |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=11 March 2020 |language=en}} In {{date|February 2020|MY}}, marines of A Company, 40 Commando, experimented with Polaris DAGOR vehicles.{{cite web |title=A Coy experiment with our new off-road vehicle. |url=https://twitter.com/40commando/status/1230182285829459969 |website=Twitter |access-date=13 November 2021 |language=en}} The DAGOR and Polaris MRZR vehicles were both used in FCF trials.

In {{date|March 2020|MY}}, parts of 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines experimented with the use of jet suits for use in ship boarding operations{{cite web |title=Jet suits - Exploring Future Commando Force concept |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuMtl8wmlDc |website=YouTube |access-date=13 November 2021 |language=en}} and carried out Exercise Autonomous Advance Force, which used autonomous equipment to test the "Autonomous Advanced Force" concept.{{cite news |title=Royal Navy tests unmanned equipment in operational setting |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-tests-unmanned-equipment-in-operational-setting/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=9 March 2020}}{{cite news |title=Groundbreaking trials on unmanned equipment in Norway |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/march/06/200306-unmanned-tests-arctic |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=6 March 2020 |language=en}} The COVID-19 pandemic notably took place during the development of the FCF concept, with the World Health Organization declaring a pandemic on {{date|11 March 2020|MDY}}, and the first UK national lockdown being declared on {{date|23 March 2020|MDY}}.{{cite news |last1=Sample |first1=Ian |title=Covid timeline: the weeks leading up to first UK lockdown |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/oct/12/covid-timeline-the-weeks-leading-up-to-first-uk-lockdown |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=11 October 2021 |language=en}} The Royal Marines and British Armed Forces as a whole had to adjust operations in light of the pandemic, which therefore affected the development of the FCF.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=How Royal Marines Recruits Are Training During Coronavirus Pandemic |url=https://www.forces.net/news/how-royal-marines-recruits-are-training-during-coronavirus |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=25 September 2020 |language=en}}

On {{date|5 June 2020|MDY}}, The Royal Navy announced it would test a new helmet camera from its MarWorks specialists and Visual Engineering.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines to trial new helmet camera for enhanced tactical advantage |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/05/200605-marines-helmet-camera |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=5 June 2020 |language=en}} In late {{date|June 2020|MDY}}, it was announced the Royal Marines would be transitioning from their existing Multi-Terrain Pattern uniform to a new MultiCam uniform made by Crye Precision.{{cite news |title=New commando uniform for Royal Marines |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/27/200626-royal-marines-new-uniform |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=27 June 2020 |language=en}} The new uniform features the White Ensign on its sleeve to signify the connection of the Royal Marines to the Royal Navy for the first time as well as British commando insignia inspired by the original designs made in World War II.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Commandos Get Brand New Uniform |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-commandos-get-brand-new-uniform |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=26 June 2020 |language=en}}

In {{date|July 2020|MY}}, 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines trialled the use of throwbots and handheld drones.{{cite news |last1=Sivills-McCann |first1=David |title=Training With Royal Marines Who Guard The UK's Nuclear Deterrent |url=https://www.forces.net/news/training-royal-marines-who-guard-uks-nuclear-deterrent |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=15 July 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Channon |first1=Max |title=Royal Marines trial 'Throwbot' that gives them combat edge |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/royal-navy-trident-marines-trial-4348089 |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=PlymouthLive |date=21 July 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Sabljak |first1=Ema |title=Drones and robots to aid Royal Marines training tested near Glasgow |url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/18591920.drones-robots-aid-royal-marines-training-tested-near-glasgow |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Glasgow Times |date=18 July 2020 |language=en}} On {{date|6 July 2020|MDY}}, it was reported that development on the MarWorks helmet camera was continuing and that 40 Commando were to begin testing prototypes.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=Could This New Helmet Camera Change The Way Royal Marines Operate? |url=https://www.forces.net/news/how-will-new-helmet-camera-change-way-royal-marines-operate |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=6 July 2020 |language=en}} On {{date|20 July 2020|MDY}}, it was announced that a new Vanguard Strike Company would form to further develop the FCF concept during trials before trials in the remainder of 2020 and would deploy for the first time in 2021.{{cite news |last1=Fiorenza |first1=Nicholas |title=New UK Royal Marines Commando unit being created as part of Future Commando Force |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/new-uk-royal-marines-commando-unit-being-created-as-part-of-future-commando-force |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Janes.com |date=21 July 2020 |language=en}}

In {{date|September 2020|MDY}}, it was reported that marines from 40 Commando had been experimenting with potential tactics to be used in the FCF, including working in smaller teams of 4, three of which make a troop of 12. Forbes reported the Royal Marines were acquiring an AI-enabled autonomous air system as part of the FCF, aligning with the "Autonomous Advanced Force" concept.{{cite news |last1=Tegler |first1=Eric |title=Anduril's New ISR Drone Looks Like A Helicopter. Not Surprising Since Cofounder Palmer Luckey Flies His Own UH-60 Black Hawk. |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/erictegler/2020/09/11/andurils-new-isr-drone-looks-like-a-helicopter-not-surprising-since-cofounder-palmer-luckey-flies-his-own-uh-60-black-hawk/ |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=Forbes |date=11 September 2020 |language=en}} In mid-September, the Royal Navy began the Littoral Response Group (Experimentation) (LRG(X)) deployment, which aimed to test the Littoral Strike concept and experiment with tactics for future LRGs.{{cite news |title=HMS Albion leads UK task group for three-month Med deployment {{!}} Royal Navy |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/september/14/200914-albion-deploys-to-med |access-date=13 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=14 September 2020 |language=en}} The LRG(X) task group reached Gibraltar by {{date|21 September 2020|MDY}}, where they practised techniques including abseiling and fast roping before the task group moved on.{{cite news |title=Task group arrives in Gibraltar on first stop of deployment |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/september/21/200921-task-group-arrives-in-gibraltar-on-first-stop-of-deployment |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=21 September 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines in stunning helicopter abseil assault in Gibraltar |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/september/23/200923-commando-helicopter-abseiling |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=23 September 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines in stunning helicopter abseil assault in Gibraltar |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/september/23/200923-commando-helicopter-abseiling |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=24 September 2020 |language=en}}

The LRG(X) task group reached Cyprus by the end of October, where they began experimenting with the use of drones, as part of Autonomous Advance Force 3.{{cite news |title=Commandos send in the drones in hi-tech Cyprus workout |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/october/20/20201020-rm-tech-trials |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=20 October 2020 |language=en}} The marines of LRG(X) went on to experiment with drones, video links, quadbikes, jet skis, ATAK tablets, and other novel equipment during the exercises in Cyprus, including Exercise Olympus Warrior.{{cite news |last1=Ministry of Defence |title=Royal Marines train with cutting-edge autonomous technology in Cyprus |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-marines-train-with-cutting-edge-autonomous-technology-in-cyprus |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=GOV.UK |date=4 November 2020 |language=en}} Soon after, 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines continued experimentation with throwbots, RPAS, and ATAKs during Exercise Serpent Rock in Gibraltar.{{cite news |title=UK Royal Marines add new technologies during Exercise Serpent Rock |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-marines-add-new-technologies-during-exercise-serpent-rock/ |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=16 November 2020}} Marines from 45 Commando also used drones and ATAKs during training in Wales.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines use small drones to aid patrol missions |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/october/12/201210-marines-use-drones |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=12 October 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Use Drones During Training Mission |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-use-drones-during-training-mission |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=14 October 2020 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Royal Marines use drones on patrol in Wales |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-marines-use-drones-on-patrol-in-wales |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=14 October 2020}}File:Bravo Company, 40 Commando RM test Heavy Lift Drone MOD 45167322.jpg

In early {{date|December 2020|MDY}}, marines from 45 Commando further tested quadbikes, using them to move mortars rapidly.{{cite journal |title=Light It Up |journal=Navy News |issue=February 2021 |pages=20–21 |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/-/media/royal-navy-responsive/images/navynews/archivepdfs/2020s/2021/navy-news-february-2021-issue-799.pdf |access-date=14 November 2021 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |issn=0028-1670 |oclc=70249744}}{{cite news |title=45 Commando Train on New CanAm 6x6s |url=http://www.warfare.today/2020/12/10/45-commando-train-on-new-canam-6x6s |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=Warfare.Today |date=10 December 2020}} On {{date|4 December 2020|MDY}}, HMS Albion and the remainder of the LRG(X) task group arrived back in the UK, finishing the deployment.{{cite news |title=Flagship Albion returns home after landmark experimental deployment |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/december/04/20201204-albion-home |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=4 December 2020 |language=en}} Later in December, marines from C Company, 40 Commando performed deep penetration missions in the Mojave Desert with a team from United States Army Special Forces working against an opposing force from the USMC and worked in 12-man teams to further experiment with the FCF concept.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines scrutinise new tactics in the Mojave Desert |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/december/21/201221-marines-in-the-desert |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=21 December 2020 |language=en}}{{cite journal |title=Hidden in the mountains |journal=Navy News |date=February 2021 |issue=February 2021 |pages=2–3 |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/-/media/royal-navy-responsive/images/navynews/archivepdfs/2020s/2021/navy-news-february-2021-issue-799.pdf |access-date=14 November 2021 |issn=0028-1670 |oclc=70249744}}

In early March, it was reported that marines from A company, 40 Commando, were experimenting with Virtual Reality (VR) technology to augment existing training methods.{{cite news |last1=Reporters |first1=Telegraph |title=Army, RAF and Marines to trial Fortnite-like virtual reality training to prepare for battlezones |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/03/15/army-raf-marines-trial-fortnite-like-virtual-reality-training |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=The Telegraph |date=15 March 2020}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines trial virtual reality kit |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/march/04/210304-virtual-reality-trials |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=4 March 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Briohny |title=Royal Marines Test New Virtual Reality Kit |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-test-new-virtual-reality-kit |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=3 March 2021 |language=en}} Soon after, marines from 45 Commando experimented further with Small unit tactics in Norway.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines complete Arctic training with intensive combat missions |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/march/12/210312-arctic-fight-phase |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=12 March 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Complete Arctic Training With Intensive Combat Missions |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-complete-arctic-training-intensive-combat-missions |access-date=14 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=15 March 2021 |language=en}} On {{date|18 March 2021|MDY}}, Forces News reported that the Vanguard Strike Company, from marines of 40 Commando, had been performing exercises including night-time shooting and experimenting with working in 12-man teams. The Integrated Review was published on {{date|16 March 2021|MDY}}, followed by the corresponding defence command paper Defence in a Competitive Age on {{date|22 March 2021|MDY}}.{{cite news |title=The Integrated Review – a Royal Navy perspective {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-integrated-review-a-royal-navy-perspective |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Navy Lookout |date=16 March 2021}}{{cite news |title=The Defence Command Paper and the future of the Royal Navy {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-defence-command-paper-and-the-future-of-the-royal-navy |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Navy Lookout |date=22 March 2021}} The latter further described the FCF and Littoral strike concepts and LRGs in greater detail, announced £200 million would be invested into the FCF over the following decade,{{cite news |title=UK defence cuts show gulf between ambition and action, says Labour |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/mar/22/uk-defence-cuts-gulf-ambition-action-labour-army-troops |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=22 March 2021 |language=en}} and, being a command paper, reinforces that they will continue to be developed to completion.{{cite news |title=Defence review: British army to be cut to 72,500 troops by 2025 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-56477900 |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=BBC News |date=22 March 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Cotterill |first1=Tom |title=Defence shake-up to overhaul Royal Marines and move city warship to Gibraltar |url=https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/people/royal-marines-to-be-transformed-into-new-special-forces-commando-unit-in-armed-forces-shake-up-3173739 |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.portsmouth.co.uk |date=22 March 2021 |language=en}}

{{Quote box

| quote = We will also draw on special operations capable forces from an Army Special Operations Brigade, the Future Commando Force and elsewhere in Defence to conduct special operations to train, advise and accompany partners in high threat environments.

| source = Defence in a competitive age

| width = 25%

| align = left

}}

Between May and June, the FCF and LRG concepts were further developed during the Littoral Response Group (North) deployment to Scotland, Norway, and the Baltic.{{cite news |title=HMS Albion To Develop Future Commando Force Tactics On First Deployment Of 2021 |url=https://www.forces.net/news/hms-albion-develop-future-commando-force-tactics-first-deployment-2021 |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=5 May 2021 |language=en}} The Army confirmed the contracts for the Challenger 3 were signed on {{date|7 May 2021|MDY}}, and went on to state the new tank would be able to operate with the FCF in littoral and coastal regions.{{cite news |author1=Ayush Jain |title=No Challenge To The Challenger: UK Military To Get 'Fully-Digitized' 148 Challenger-3 Main Battle Tanks |url=https://eurasiantimes.com/no-challenge-to-the-challenger-uk-military-to-get-fully-digitized-148-challenger-3-main-battle-tanks |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News |date=8 May 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Newdick |first1=Thomas |title=British Army's Next-Generation Challenger 3 Tank Is Now Under Construction |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/44927/british-armys-next-generation-challenger-3-tank-is-now-under-construction |access-date=6 June 2022 |work=The Drive |date=25 March 2022 |language=en |quote=Even in its basic form, the Challenger 3 will feature adaptations that should make it better suited to fighting in less-traditional terrain, including littoral environments in support of the Future Commando Force.}}{{cite web |title=Challenger 3 Main Battle Tank (MBT), UK |url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/challenger-3-main-battle-tank-mbt-uk |website=Army Technology |access-date=6 June 2022 |date=27 April 2022 |quote=Designed to handle multi-domain warfare, the tank retains its ability to operate in coastal environments to support Future Commando Force of the Royal Marines.}}

Later in May, members of 29th Commando Regiment Royal Artillery and 148 (Meiktila) Battery Royal Artillery carried out Exercise Fleet Battle Problem, in which it was examined how artillery fire and airstrikes could be coordinated within the FCF.{{cite news |title=Elite commando gunners head on experimental missions with US Marines |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/may/14/140521-148-battery-exercise |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=14 May 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Stealthy Army Commandos win the Fight in UK-US Exercise |url=https://www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events/news/2021/05/29commando-exercise-battle-fleet-problem/ |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.army.mod.uk |date=25 May 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Commandos rain down artillery in Western Scotland |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/commandos-rain-down-artillery-in-western-scotland |access-date=15 November 2021 |date=17 May 2021}} In late May, the Commando Logistic Regiment carried out Exercise Green Dragon to better understand how members of the FCF would remain supplied on operations.{{cite news |title=Commando logisticians test new ways of operating |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/may/27/270521-commando-logisticians-test-new-ways-of-operating |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=27 May 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=UK Royal Marines participate in Exercise Green Dragon at Dartmoor |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/british-royal-marines-participate-exercise-green-dragon-dartmoor |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=6 July 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Ricks |first1=Rebecca |title=Royal Marines Test Their Ability To Deploy At Short Notice |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-test-their-ability-deploy-short-notice |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=26 June 2018 |language=en}}

In July, marines of 40 Commando and 42 Commando performed mock raids using drone "swarms", used to resupply the marines, for the first time as part of Autonomous Advance Force 4.0.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines seek 'battlefield advantage' as they train with drone swarms in UK first |url=https://news.sky.com/story/royal-marines-seek-battlefield-advantage-as-they-train-with-drone-swarms-in-uk-first-12357549 |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Sky News |date=17 July 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Drone swarms support Commando Forces trials in a first for the UK's armed forces |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/july/17/210715-autonomous-advance-force-4 |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=17 July 2021 |language=en}} Later in July, marines from 40 Commando continued trials of the Polaris MRZR, with potential use to transport "light strike teams".{{cite news |title=New lightweight vehicles tested by Royal Marines |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/july/23/210723-royal-marines-lightweight-vehicle |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=23 July 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Adams |first1=Briohny Williams Harry |title=Amazing first-hand views as Royal Marines learn to drive MRZR Light Strike Vehicle |url=https://www.forces.net/news/amazing-first-hand-views-royal-marines-learn-drive-mrzr-light-strike-vehicle |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=26 July 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines test MRZR-D4 off-roader and other lightweight vehicles |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-marines-test-mrzr-d4-off-roader-and-other-lightweight-vehicles |access-date=15 November 2021 |work=www.naval-technology.com |date=23 July 2021}} Further, marines from B Company, 40 Commando, took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia, where they continued to practice working in 12-man teams and with drones as they acted as an advance force ahead of the main landings.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines To Join Giant Australian Bilateral Defence Exercise |url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines-join-giant-australian-bilateral-defence-exercise |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=22 June 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines head on training raids in Australia |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/july/09/210709-royal-marines-in-australia |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=9 July 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |title=40 Commando RM On TALISMAN SABRE 2021 |url=https://www.joint-forces.com/exercise-news/45439-40-commando-rm-on-talisman-sabre-2021 |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Joint Forces News |date=31 July 2021}}

Ending in late September, Exercise Dynamic Mariner 21/Joint Warrior 21-2, which saw HMS Prince of Wales being declared fully operational, involved FCF development.{{cite news |title=HMS Prince of Wales ready for global missions as international exercise ends off Scotland |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/october/01/20211001-joint-warrior-ends |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=1 October 2021 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Exercise Joint Warrior concludes off Scottish coast |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/exercise-joint-warrior-concludes-off-scottish-coast |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=5 October 2021}}{{cite news |title=Second UK aircraft carrier declared operational after major drill |url=https://defbrief.com/2021/10/01/second-uk-aircraft-carrier-declared-operational-after-major-drill |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=Defense Brief |date=1 October 2021}} In late October, marines from 40 Commando took part in Exercise Green Dagger alongside the USMC, in which they used FCF tactics and explored how small commando teams would be resupplied, as part of the recently created Littoral Response Group (South) of the LRGs.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines complete Mojave Desert exercises with fiery five-day battle |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/november/03/210311-royal-marines-complete-desert-exercises |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=3 November 2021 |language=en}} It was reported that the USMC suffered a severe "defeat" to the Royal Marines,{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Commandos force US Marine Corps troops to surrender in training exercise |url=https://news.sky.com/story/royal-marines-commandos-force-us-marine-corps-troops-to-surrender-in-training-exercise-12458823 |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Sky News |date=November 2021 |language=en}} however, this is disputed and remains unclear.{{cite news |last1=Milburn |first1=Andrew |title=No 'surrender' — What really happened between US and British Marines at a training exercise |url=https://taskandpurpose.com/voices/us-marines-didnt-surrender-british-training-exercise |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Task & Purpose |date=9 November 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Gladwell |first1=Dustin |title=New Facts Emerge in the Claim That US Marines Surrendered to UK Royal Marines |url=https://sofrep.com/news/new-facts-emerge-in-the-claim-that-us-marines-surrendered-to-uk-royal-marines |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=SOFREP |date=6 November 2021 |language=en}} During the exercise, marines were pictured using the novel NightFighter X counter-UAV system.{{cite news |last1=Walters |first1=Alex |title=NightFighter X: The Royal Marines' new counter-UAV system |url=https://www.forces.net/news/nightfighterx-royal-marines-new-counter-uav-system |access-date=16 November 2021 |work=Forces Network |date=5 November 2021 |language=en}}

{{Quote box|quote=We are more sophisticated, more lethal, special operations capable, and will soon be more deployed than ever before. ... We're new, we're different, and we're the future.

{{cite AV media

| people = Lt Col Andy Dow RM

| date = 3 Nov 2021

| title = Commandos in the Desert

| language = en

| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hE1vmlKn_wM

| access-date = 20 Feb 2022

| time = 0:16

| publisher = Royal Marines

| quote = We are more sophisticated, more lethal, special operations capable, and will soon be more deployed than ever before. ... We're new, we're different, and we're the future.

}}

|width=25%|align=left}}

In December, a publication from the House of Commons Defence Committee, following its inquiry into the Royal Navy as a whole, expressed concern at insufficient funding for the FCF: "we are concerned that the Future Commando Force and the Littoral Response Groups are not properly resourced to continue amphibious operations". An October publication from King's College London's Centre for Defence Studies detailed how the FCF, if replacing the existing formation of the Royal Marines altogether, would represent a cut in personnel of ~43%: "...if this entails a reduction in size, it also entails a reduction of the one UK force designed explicitly to be expeditionary...".

In February 2022, a troop of new Royal Marines recruits passed training having been exposed to and trained in novel FCF tactics and concepts.{{cite news |title=Royal Marines welcome 24 new green berets to the commando family |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2022/february/08/20220208-royal-marines-welcome-24-new-green-berets-to-the-commando-family |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=8 February 2022 |language=en}}{{cite news |last1=Ball |first1=Elliot |title=Royal Marines pass '36 week job application' |url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/royal-marines-kings-squad-pass-6626183 |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=PlymouthLive |date=9 February 2022 |language=en}} Later in February, a report published from the National Audit Office found that "the New Medium Helicopter and Future Commando Force programmes ... are currently underfunded". This added to other reports of underfunding of the FCF programme, as well as other initiatives from the Integrated Review. The government later responded to the National Audit Office, restating the commitment to the FCF and creating LRGs, mentioning investments made into the initiatives and planned upgrades to ships.{{cite web |author1=Defence Committee |title="We're going to need a bigger Navy": Government Response to the Committee's Third Report |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5802/cmselect/cmdfence/1160/report.html |website=UK Parliament |access-date=26 February 2022 |date=25 February 2022 |quote=Conclusion 11. We are concerned that the Future Commando Force and the Littoral Response Groups are not properly resourced to continue amphibious operations. The Department must confirm that it remains committed to retaining the Royal Marines’ amphibious capabilities. (Paragraph 86) Response: The Department remains committed to maintaining and modernising the UK's amphibious capabilities. The IR allocated £278 million over the next ten years to transform our Commando Forces that deliver our Littoral Strike capability. In tandem with this investment, the RN continues to identify areas where its existing resources can be re-prioritised to support development of Littoral Strike. As well as the existing Landing Platform Dock (LPD) and Landing Ship Dock (Auxiliary) (LSD(A)) ships, which are specifically designed for amphibious operations, other warships and auxiliaries may support the LRGs, augmented by commercial shipping, to enable the movement of material and personnel during routine operations. Up to six MRSS, which will replace both the LPD and LSD(A) vessels currently in service, were announced in the IR to enter service in the early 2030s. This demonstrates the Department's enduring commitment to amphibious capabilities. To augment these vessels, and the associated aircraft, the UK Commando Forces programme is also exploring options for development of new, modernised, fast landing craft to speed up the movement of forces from sea to land, thereby increasing amphibious operational responsiveness.}}

It was reported that FCF tactics during Exercise Cold Response 2022,{{cite news |last1=Callingham |first1=Fiona |title=HMS Prince of Wales leads more than 3,000 sailors and Royal Marines deployed within the Arctic Circle |url=https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/hms-prince-of-wales-leads-more-than-3000-sailors-and-royal-marines-deployed-within-the-arctic-circle-alongside-nato-allies-3648725 |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=www.portsmouth.co.uk |date=11 April 2022 |language=en |quote=...and develop new tactics alongside the Future Commando Force...}} which took place from March to April.{{cite news |title=Exercise Cold Response 2022 – NATO and partner forces face the freeze in Norway |url=https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_192351.htm |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=NATO |date=7 March 2022 |language=en |quote=WHEN: March-April 2022}}{{cite news |title=Royal Marines head 'behind enemy lines' on fjord raids |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2022/february/22/220222-royal-marines-head-behind-enemy-lines-on-fjord-training-raids |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=22 February 2022 |language=en |quote=...in March and April...}}{{cite news |title=Royal Navy completes largest Arctic defence exercise since the Cold War |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2022/april/11/20220411-royal-navy-completes-largest-arctic-defence-exercise |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |date=11 April 2022 |language=en}} In {{date|June 2022}}, Brigadier Mark Totten OBE, the director of the FCF programme, described how the FCF would be made up of ~4,000 marines, focus on both the Arctic and Suez Canal areas, and would work alongside the Navy's UK Carrier Strike Group.{{cite news |last1=Correll |first1=Diana Stancy |title=New commando force leads Britain's military in Arctic operations |url=https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2022/05/13/new-commando-force-leads-britains-military-in-arctic-operations |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=Marine Corps Times |date=13 May 2022 |language=en}}

• Royal Marines
• Littoral Response Groups
• Defence in a Competitive Age

{{reflist}}

• [https://www.forces.net/news/royal-marines/what-royal-marines-future-commando-force Watch: What is the Future Commando Force? ]
• [https://medium.com/voices-of-the-armed-forces/future-commando-force-ca3d3273b40e Future Commando Force]
• [https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/thoughts-on-the-future-commando-force/ Thoughts on the Future Commando Force]
• [https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/royal-marines-ben-wallace-army-defence-ministry-of-defence-b925440.html Royal Marines to form new commando force in armed forces shake-up]
• [https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/sunset-of-the-royal-marines-sunrise-of-the-future-commando-force Sunset of the Royal Marines; Sunrise of the Future Commando Force.]
• [https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/reconciling-the-old-with-the-new-fcf-and-the-integrated-review Reconciling the Old with the New: FCF and the Integrated Review]
• [https://www.puzzle-palace.com/community-articles/the-heavy-weapons-specialisation-is-the-key-to-the-future-commando-force The Heavy Weapons Specialisation is the key to the Future Commando Force.]

{{United Kingdom Special Forces}}

{{British Commando Forces}}

Category:Royal Marines