The Regiment is made up of the following Squadrons:
- 51 Port Squadron (provides port and maritime capability).
- 52 Port Squadron (provides port and maritime capability).
- 53 Enabling and Headquarters Squadron (provides communication, catering and administrative output and port enabling capabilities to 104 Logistics Brigade).
- Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers (REME) Workshop (Provides equipment support to the Regiment for both the vehicle and vessel fleets).
The Regiment is paired with reserve unit, 165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC.
Britain’s Armed Forces have the capacity to deploy, sustain, and recover combat forces, anywhere in the world. The bulk of any movement by sea, the Regiment provides;
- A sea point of embarkation or disembarkation using an established port, an austere port, or a suitable beach.
- A tactical loading and discharging capability to support 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines on amphibious operations.
- Support to other Services and Government departments when assisting in disaster relief around the world.
The Regiment operates a wide variety of vehicles, load handling plant, and vessels. These include:
- Combat Support Boats
- Army Work Boats
- Mexeflote rafts
- Rough terrain container handlers
- Dockside cranes
- Rough terrain forklifts
It has a Dive Team responsible for a range of tasks including port clearance and vessel maintenance.
The Regiment employs the most diverse range of tradesmen and women in the RLC. This reflects its numerous roles and the broad range of equipment they operate. Our trades include:
- Port Operator
- Mariner
- Marine Engineer
- Movement Controllers
- Vehicle Support Specialists
- Regiment also has; Drivers, Chefs, Suppliers and Communication Specialists
Lance Corporal Maudsley (Marine Engineer)
“In my short time with the Regiment I have taken advantage of every opportunity that has come my way. I first started as a Mexeflote Engineer in 52 Squadron, where I maintained and repaired the Thrustmaster engines. The job came with a lot of responsibility, so I had a real sense of belonging and pride in my job right from the start.
“After a year, I was given the opportunity to be attached to RM Poole for 6 months. Here I spent time working on Jet-Skis and outboard engines, further developing my engineering knowledge. On promotion, I was posted to 51 Sqn as a Combat Support Boat Engineer. I have taken part in Special Forces exercises and been involved in training new Mariners and Marine Engineers.
“Most recently I was deployed on Atlantic Patrol Task (North) onboard RFA Mounts Bay. Our role was to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Caribbean during hurricane season. In September, when Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas, all my training and experience was put to the test.”
Sporting Opportunities
17 Port and Maritime Regiment takes pride in the fitness and robustness of its soldiers. Every effort is made to release soldiers to represent the Regiment, Corps, Army and in some cases the Country in all manner of sports.
The Regiment has successful ski teams (Nordic, Alpine and Snowboarding), an excellent Rugby Union Team (the Dolphins), a promising football team and successful male and female basketball teams.
We also have individuals who represent at a high level in triathlon, angling and rugby. The Regiment provides sport for all and encourages all its soldiers to get involved.