The Logistic Support Squadron is part of the Commando Logistic Regiment Royal Marines and consists of:
- General Support Troop
- Tech Troop
- Petroleum Troop
- 383 Commando Petroleum Troop (Reserve)
There are Royal Marine Commandos serving in the Squadron, also RLC soldiers form part of the Commando Logistic Regiment's Landing and Equipment Support Squadrons.
Additionally there are RLC personnel attached to 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery and 24 Regiment Royal Engineers.
The Logistic Support Squadron Commando Logistic Regiment is unique within the RLC, not only does it not work alongside the Royal Marines but it is integrated within a Royal Marine Regiment.
We provide second line support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines on all operations. 3 Commando Brigade has the capacity to deploy, sustain and recover combat forces, anywhere in the world. Therefore we are responsible for second line combat supplies wherever Royal Marine units are deployed. As part of the Lead Commando Group the Squadron is permanently on five days notice to move. This ensures that the soldiers you work alongside are always busy.
All new members of the Squadron are encouraged to pass the All Arms Commando Course and are given every opportunity and help to do so.
The Squadron is trained in amphibious operations and can deploy supplies and equipment from ship to shore.
We unload via: Landing Craft Utility, Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel and Landing Craft Air Cushion, using Ship To Objective Manoeuvre tactics; as well as using aviation working along side Commando Helicopter Force following Maritime Intra Theatre Lift doctrine.
The Squadron operates a wide variety of vehicles and load handling plant. These include:
- Six, nine and 15-tonne MAN Support Vehicles
- Enhanced Pallet Loading System
- Rough terrain forklifts
The Squadron employs a diverse range of tradesmen and women. This reflects its numerous roles and the broad range of equipment they operate. Where the Army’s Fighting Brigades are supported by an RLC Regiment, 3 Commando Brigade is supported by a Squadron. Our trades include:
Other training we receive includes: the All Arms Commando Course, Cold Weather Survival and Cold Weather Warfare training.
Amphibious operations training includes: Embarked Forces Sea Survival, Helicopter Underwater Escape Trainer, Helicopter Underslung Load Equipment and Drop Zone NCO.
Corporal McClusky (Supplier)
Shortly after arriving in the Squadron, I found myself training for the AACC (All Arms Commando Course). The training was long and tough, however it was all worth it as I passed the course on my first attempt. I then went onto do my AAPTI (All Arms Physical Training Instructor) course so I could take physical training and help prepare others for the AACC.
I have deployed to Norway, where I completed the Cold Weather Survival Course (CWSC) and the Cold Weather Warfare Course (CWWC). I have also deployed to the Caribbean on Operation Ruman, aiding in the hurricane relief effort as well as to California and North Carolina, working with the US Marine Corps (USMC). It was interesting to learn different procedures. Daily life sees me offloading stores and distributing them to the different units within the Brigade. We have two live accounts, which means a lot of kit and equipment, so we are kept busy.
Learn more about supply specialists
Sporting Opportunities
Logistic Support Squadron 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. We currently have one Army Rally Driver, seven RLC Rugby players, two RLC Basketball players, two RLC Volleyball players, one RLC Swimmer and one RLC Clay Target shooter. Being based with the Royal Marines and The Royal Navy allows soldiers to enter both Army and Navy competitions.
If you want a professional trade in a fast moving, deployed environment, working with some of the best soldiers in the world, from multiple nations, the Logistic Support Squadron is the place to be.
Lance Corporal King - Petroleum Operator
On joining the Squadron, I deployed to Norway with 40 Commando. I completed the CWSC then as a Petroleum Operator, supporting the fighting companies on Exercise Northern Winds. On my return I completed the AACC.
Deploying to California on Exercise Green Dragon, we worked alongside the USMC with its bulk fuel vehicle, supporting 40 Commando. We covertly refuelled recce troops behind enemy lines, conducted night ops and supported fighting company vehicle convoys, giving them extra range.
In camp we regularly service our JOFS Light Forces kit. Being on five days’ notice to move, means we are always ready to go. The troop also supports Landing Force Support Squadron, utilising the units’ Bulk Fuel Vehicle asset. Team cohesion, fitness and being able to adapt to anything, is what makes being a part of the Squadron a great place to be.
Learn more about petroleum operators