All aboard - Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape
The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) participated in rigorous training sessions led by the UK Royal Marines during a visit to Kenya by HMS LANCASTER, a British Royal Navy Frigate.
Following instruction and hands-on examples from Royal Marines of 42 Commando, aspiring Kenyan Marines tackled the task of carrying out visit, board, search, and seizure drills. These tactics are commonly utilized to combat piracy, terrorism, and smuggling activities.
These workouts complement the fundamental training that the KMCU undergo and demonstrate the ongoing dedication of both the UK and Kenya to cultivate a robust, skilled, and flexible Kenya Defence Forces as a cornerstone of stability and security in the region.
The KMCU was formed through a collaboration between the UK and Kenya, with the goal of setting up a self-sufficient training program for the Kenyan Navy to educate their own Marine Commandos.
In May 2023, the KMCU achieved a significant milestone as the initial group of Kenyan Marines successfully finished a challenging training course. This program closely resembles the one followed by the Royal Marines, marking a historic moment for the organization.
The US Military has also had a key role in developing the KCMU by making sure that this skilled and powerful unit is equipped with top-notch gear.
The United Kingdom's top diplomat in Kenya, Neil Wigan, stated:
It's great to see that the UK and Kenya have made use of this chance to enhance the Kenyan Marines training program - a wonderful instance of how our security collaboration is positively impacting Kenya's military abilities. Working together, we are making significant progress in ensuring the safety and security of Kenya, the UK, and the region as a whole.
Captain Chris Sharp of the Royal Navy is the leader of the HMS Lancaster (Port).
The visit of HMS Lancaster to Kenya is a great chance for the Royal Marines on board to practice boarding operations alongside the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit. This collaboration strengthens the partnership between the UK and Kenya in enhancing stability and security in the region.
The ship HMS LANCASTER stopped at the Port of Mombasa for a brief operational rest from patrols with Combined Task Force 150. During its time there, the ship had carried out drug busts and various maritime security activities. After the break, HMS LANCASTER will head back to the Gulf region to continue its efforts in promoting peace and stability. The visit to Mombasa also serves as a chance to showcase the strong, longstanding bond between the UK and Kenyan Armed Forces.
The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership is a bold five-year deal that aims to provide advantages for both countries and ensure the safety of our citizens. This agreement is supported by the Defence Cooperation Agreement, which outlines the structure of the training program.
HMS Lancaster is a versatile warship from the Type-23 Duke Class. It is capable of performing various tasks such as combating drug trafficking and conducting patrols to ensure maritime security. Additionally, the ship is equipped with a Wildcat maritime attack helicopter.
The official UK-Kenya strategic partnership declaration is available at this link.
You can check out some amazing pictures from the joint training session by clicking on this link.
