SNOWMOBILES

The SAS, SBS and the Royal Marines all employ a variety of over-snow vehicles (OSV) when operating in arctic conditions. Snowmobiles are typically powered by caterpillar tracks at the rear, with a set of skis up front which are steered by a handlebar mechanism. Snowmobiles run on petrol, as apposed to diesel, which would freeze at arctic temperatures.

UK elite and special forces, whilst currently focused on warmer environments, still need to be kept up to speed on operating in the snow. During the cold war, the SAS, SBS and Royal Marines were tasked with protecting NATO's northern flank through the defence of Norway. Snowmobiles give these units the ability to maneuver in conditions in which conventional vehicles and aircraft cannot operate. Aside from the men and supplies carried on the vehicles themselves, snowmobiles can pull skiers and trailers behind them. These trailers can hold supplies and can be used to casevac the wounded.

Makes of snowmobiles used by the Royal Marines include the Skidoo 6100s. Other arctic vehicles used by the Royal Marines include the larger BV 206D and Viking tracked vehicles

Snowmobiles can tow skiers and extra supplies in trailers.

Photo courtesy US DoD

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