According to various reports, a unit of the Royal Gurkha Rifles (RGR) from the British Army was recently deployed to the Malvinas Islands to conduct a new military exercise designated “Marinization.” While the official start and end dates of the deployment have not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that the operation involved cooperation with the Resident Infantry Company (RIC) stationed at RAF Mount Pleasant and the crew of the Royal Navy’s HMS Forth. This collaboration aimed to enhance interoperability and preparedness for emergency situations onboard.
As part of the recurring exercises conducted by UK forces on the islands, the 2nd Section of the 1st Battalion, Royal Gurkha Rifles (1RGR) participated in drills simulating scenarios such as onboard fires and flooding aboard the patrol vessel HMS Forth (P222). These activities required the use of immersion equipment and adaptation to adverse maritime conditions, strengthening joint response capabilities between land and naval forces.
The collaboration included joint patrols across various areas of the islands and amphibious landing operations, allowing both forces to adapt to different terrains and environmental conditions. During these patrols, emergency aid procedures and medical evacuations were conducted with helicopter support. Notably, British forces have been active in the region since mid-January, as reports indicate that this same unit was also engaged in operations across different terrains and environments towards the end of the month. These activities served as a test for newly appointed non-commissioned officers in combat scenarios.
Beyond the Malvinas Islands, Gurkha units regularly participate in various exercises, allowing them to exchange experiences with other forces. A notable example was Exercise Vigilant Isles 23 in November 2023, where British forces trained alongside approximately 400 personnel from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). This marked the first time such a deployment took place since the signing of a defense agreement between Japan and the United Kingdom earlier that year.
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