In a significant enhancement of their operational capabilities, the Royal Marines Commandos have received a new fleet of 159 snowmobiles designed specifically for operations in the Arctic region. These Lynx Brutal Over Snow Reconnaissance Vehicles were delivered to the UK Commando Force, which serves as the brigade-sized operational arm of the Royal Marines.
Previously, specialist teams within the Commando Force utilized snowmobiles, but the need for more agile and mobile units has grown due to evolving battlefield tactics. Smaller teams are now required to operate across larger areas, necessitating the acquisition of advanced reconnaissance vehicles. To address this demand, the Ministry of Defence allocated £9 million (approximately $11.64 million) last year for the procurement of these snowmobiles, sourced from a Finnish subsidiary of Canadian company Bombardier Recreational Products.
Brigadier Chris Haw emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, “This is a very important investment in the Commando Force’s Special Operations capability in the High North, at a strategically significant time.” He noted that the introduction of these vehicles is part of a broader transformation program aimed at enhancing the sophistication and specialization of the forces.
The contract includes provisions for in-service support and post-design services, ensuring the vehicles remain operationally effective.
The snowmobiles are currently being tested by the Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS) at Camp Viking, the UK Commando Force’s winter base in Northern Norway, as part of their Winter Deployment 25. The SRS, comprised of selected personnel from the three services and based in Plymouth, acts as the eyes and ears of the Commando Force.
Initial feedback from SRS operators regarding the snowmobiles has been overwhelmingly positive. The new models offer enhanced power, improved tracks, and better suspension options compared to their predecessors. An SRS operator remarked, “So far the platform has received high praise for ease of use and manoeuvrability, making it the most agile platform used to date.” The vehicles’ lightweight design allows for the transport of heavier sledges without compromising performance.
In addition to their superior performance at night, the snowmobiles are equipped with extra suspension and a more aggressive track design that provides increased power and lift in deep snow conditions. The operator concluded, “Overall, the platform has been well received and fits well into our operational requirements, which involves long insertion techniques by highly experienced and motivated Extreme Cold Weather experts.”
With the integration of these cutting-edge vehicles, the Royal Marines Commandos appear poised to bolster their capabilities in challenging Arctic environments, reflecting an ongoing commitment to adapting and evolving in response to the complexities of modern warfare.
