Navy officials cut eight weeks from Royal Marines’ training programme in Devon to save money despite concerns over recruits’ readiness for frontline deployment

A significant change is coming to the Royal Marines’ training programme as the Navy slashes eight weeks off the course to save money.

This decision has raised concerns about the potential for recruits to graduate underprepared, with some fearing that the new, shortened schedule could lead to “raw” Marines being deployed to the frontlines.

What’s Being Removed from the Training

The upcoming adjustments, set to begin in May, will eliminate some key aspects of the training, such as rock climbing and other adventurous activities.

Additionally, the four-week foundation block, which traditionally helps to identify weaker candidates early on, will be removed.

Recruits will spend less time on ceremonial skills like marching and focus more on “field skills” to make up for the lost time.

The Shift in Training Duration

For decades, basic training for Royal Marines has lasted 36 weeks, significantly longer than the Army’s infantry training, which is 10 weeks shorter.

This extended programme, costing £120,000 per Marine, was justified as a means of ensuring superior training standards.

However, with the defense budget under pressure, the training schedule will be shortened to better align with the Army’s approach.

Financial Implications and Future Reviews

The move is part of a broader effort to save money, with estimates suggesting a £28,000 saving per recruit, or £2 million over the next five years.

There are also rumors that the officer training course could face similar cuts as part of the ongoing financial review.

Budget Constraints and Broader Cuts Across the Military

This reduction in training is just one part of a larger trend of cost-saving measures across the British military.

Live firing exercises have already been significantly reduced, partly due to the rising cost of ammunition and the diversion of supplies to Ukraine.

In fact, defense officials even considered cutting a £13 million grant to the Chelsea Pensioners before public outcry led to the plan being scrapped.

Concerns from Within the Military

The decision has sparked concerns within the Royal Marines about the impact on recruits’ preparedness.

A source from the Commando Training Centre in Devon expressed worry that the shortened training could leave recruits unprepared for the challenges of frontline service.

While officials have assured that the cuts will be part of a one-year trial, many remain anxious about the potential long-term consequences.

The Risk of Lowered Standards

Veterans like Rear Admiral Chris Parry, who served in the Falklands War, have voiced strong opposition to the cuts, emphasizing that the excellence of the Royal Marines depends on their rigorous training.

A Marine officer also pointed out that the length of the course is essential to maintaining the high standards required for the job.

Government’s Stance and Future Plans

The issue of defense spending remains a contentious topic, with calls for the government to increase defense funding to 2.5% of GDP.

However, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has not committed to this proposal.

While the Royal Navy maintains that no final decisions have been made, they stress that training standards will remain high, but the future of the training programme remains uncertain.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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