Commando forces were first formed in World War 2, using Army and Royal Marine volunteers. Commando training was arduous, setting the highest standards of military skills and battle discipline to prepare soldiers to conduct raids on hostile coastlines.
A key component of the training focused on developing the resolve and initiative to operate under the most challenging circumstances.

In action worldwide Brigade units also train frequently to operate in desert and jungle environments. Over the past few years 3 Commando Brigade has served in many countries including Sierra Leone, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Today, the main Commando formation is 3 Commando Brigade RM, which is made up of a number of Army and Royal Marine Commando units. The Brigade is held at high readiness, and has an amphibious, arctic and mountain warfare capability.

The Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (REME) have a significant part to play during Commando operations.
The Brigade uses a wide variety of weapon systems, vehicles and sensors that must often be maintained and repaired under difficult conditions.
REME soldiers deploy worldwide, operating in small teams to support a fast paced series of training and operational commitments. This requires soldiers to combine a strong trade ability with the skills of a Commando trained soldier.