Arbroath’s Royal Marines have already begun to deploy to the front line in Afghanistan, it has been confirmed.
The soldiers of 45 Commando based at RM Condor have been sent to Nad-e Ali in Helmand province where they will be stationed for six months as part of a 9500-strong UK section of NATO forces.
It is the fourth time the unit has been utilised in the country, with the mission of helping to provide security in support of the Afghan government.
Around 600 personnel from the Angus base will be sent out, some of whom are likely to be making their first trip into a conflict area.
Tasks will include patrolling, protecting reconstruction teams, supporting the Afghan national army and police, and denying the insurgents freedom of movement.
Since last summer the marines have been rigorously trained to prepare them for duty in one of the most dangerous war zones in the world.
Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Lee said, “The commando has completed over six months of Afghan-specific, predeployment training and is now in the best possible shape to undertake the challenges of the months ahead.
“I am immensely proud of all the men of the commando and have the utmost confidence in every single one of them.
“45 Commando is determined to further capitalise on the excellent progress that has been made in NadeAli (South) in order to make a difference for the better.”
The very first military operation in Afghanistan back in 2002 was led by the marines as part of an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) force.
Since then there have been deployments in 2006, and again in 2008, to carry out security patrols, mentoring and training for Afghan troops, and protection for teams building schools and hospitals.
45 Commando is part of 3 Commando Brigade and is made up of companies Victor, Whiskey, XRay, Yankee, Zulu, Logistics and Headquarters, in addition to an artillery unit, 7 Battery 29 Commando RA.
The troops will join their counterparts from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and crews from RAF Lossiemouth.