KDF’s Marines Undergo Training With UK Royal Counterparts 1 Year After Creation [PHOTOS]

The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) on Tuesday, July 30 took part in action-packed training exercises delivered by the UK Royal Marines, as part of a visit to Kenya by HMS Lancaster, a British Royal Navy Frigate. 

The British High Commission in Nairobi in a statement revealed that the Royal Marines from 42 Commando delivered training and practical demonstrations to the Kenyan marine unit which took on the challenge of completing visit, board, search, and seizure exercises. 

The Commission disclosed that the tactics taught are frequently used to counter piracy, terrorism, and smuggling.

The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) taking part in action-packed training exercises delivered by the UK Royal Marines. /BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION NAIROBI

“These exercises are in addition to the basic training that the KMCU receive and show the UK and Kenya’s continued commitment to building a strong, capable, and adaptable Kenya Defence Forces as an anchor of regional stability and security,” the commission said. 

Furthermore, it was revealed that the creation of the KMCU involves a five-year partnership between the UK and Kenya to establish a self-sustaining training cycle through which the Kenyan Navy will be able to train their own Marine Commandos. 

The KMCU made history in May 2023 when the first-ever cohort of Kenyan Marines completed a rigorous training programme which largely mirrors that undertaken by the Royal Marines. 

The US Military also played an integral role in the creation of the KMCU by ensuring this specialist and formidable force is equipped to the highest standard. 

British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, said through the collaboration, Kenyans, the UK and the region at large will become safer and more secure. 

“It’s fantastic to see that the UK and Kenya have taken advantage of this opportunity to add serious value to the Kenyan Marines training programme – a great example of how our security partnership is making a real difference to Kenya’s military capacity and capability,” Wigan remarked. 

Royal Navy Commanding Officer HMS Lancaster (Port) Chris Sharp weighed in by hailing the visit to Kenya as one that offered a fantastic opportunity for Lancaster’s Royal Marines to train and exercise boarding operations with the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit. 

“This contributes to the UK and Kenya’s joint commitment to improve regional stability and security,” Sharp said.

HMS LANCASTER visited the Port of Mombasa for a short operational break from patrols and as part of Combined Task Force 150, where it has recently conducted drug busts and completed other maritime security serials.

It will then return to its long-standing presence in the Gulf region, focused on promoting peace and stability.

Her visit to Mombasa provides an opportunity to demonstrate the close, historic relationship between the UK and Kenyan Armed Forces.

The HMS Lancaster when it docked in Mombasa. /BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION