3 SCOTS Battalion undergoes intense exercises to enhance combat readiness.
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Soldiers stationed at Fort George are undergoing intensive training as they gear up for a significant mission in Kenya. Members of The Royal Regiment of Scotland’s 3 SCOTS Battalion participated in the Duke of Rothesay Patrol competition, designed to evaluate their leadership and tactical skills.
This rigorous exercise is not just a test of physical endurance but also a crucial preparation for their upcoming deployment.
Intensive training exercises
During the second day of the exercise, teams engaged in a challenging two-mile march while carrying 20kg of equipment.
This was followed by a live firing exercise at a nearby range, near Ardersier. Such demanding activities are integral to the battalion’s training regimen, which is aimed at ensuring soldiers are combat-ready for a two-month operation in Kenya, where they will participate in exercise Bull Storm.
Major Ashley Pendlebury, stationed at Fort George, emphasized the importance of these exercises in sharpening the troops’ skills and preparing them for deployment. He noted that the conditions in Kenya would be ‘rough,’ but the soldiers’ training has equipped them to handle such challenges. “Kenya is a well-trodden pathway for the British Army,” he remarked, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the British military and the region.
Adapting to challenging environments
Major Pendlebury described the Kenyan terrain as tough, with hard, rocky landscapes and the presence of wildlife posing additional risks. “Every bush has an inch-long thorn on it, and you’ll hear the lions, elephants, and hyenas,” he explained. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in the soldiers’ ability to adapt, stating that if they can endure the harsh Scottish winters, they can certainly thrive in the heat of Kenya.
Corporal Jake Noble, a veteran of 15 years, echoed the sentiment of teamwork and preparation. After completing the live firing exercise, he remarked on the importance of collective effort in achieving their goals. “It was a really good effort by a strong team,” he said, emphasizing that success in the military relies on the strength of the entire unit.
Morale and readiness for deployment
As the soldiers prepare for their deployment, the heat of Kenya remains a significant concern. Lance Corporal Cody Gray, who has served for over a decade, acknowledged the challenges posed by the climate but expressed optimism about their training. “The boys are all really fit and they did well in the patrol competition yesterday,” he stated, highlighting the positive morale among the troops.
Lieutenant Colonel Rob Smith, Commanding Officer of 3 SCOTS, underscored the critical nature of the training exercises. He stated that the training is essential for honing their warfighting skills amid escalating global conflicts. “Today is the second part of the Duke of Rothesay patrol competition. It is about junior command and leadership and preparing for warfighting,” he explained. This preparation is reflective of the British Army’s commitment to NATO and the ongoing threat posed by Russia.
As the soldiers of 3 SCOTS continue their training at Fort George, they remain focused on their mission in Kenya, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead. Their dedication to rigorous training ensures that they are not only prepared for deployment but also equipped to fulfill their core purpose: to fight and win wars on land.
