Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron

Royal Marines with Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS), 3 Commando Brigade, conduct arctic warfare training in Norway, Feb 2014.

The SRS is an element of 30 Commando Information Exploitation Group, 3 Commando Brigade's Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) formation. The Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron includes the Brigade Patrol Troop, an elite cadre of Mountain Leaders and Reconnaissance Operators who deploy ahead of the main brigade force to gather intelligence.

The SRS, and other 3 Commando Brigade elements were receiving training as part of Exercise Cetus 14. The Cold Weather Warfare Course (CWWC) includes a survival phase in which the Royal Marines learn to make fires, cook food and construct shelters in the unforgiving environment. They also learn how to travel and fight on skis while carrying heavy bergens.

The Royal Marines are the UK's arctic warfare specialists.