Royal Marines take the plunge off Chinooks in helicasting drill
Royal Marines have tested some of their most daring commando skills in helicopter jump training.
Members of 40 Commando were picked up by RAF Chinooks on the dunes of Braunton Burrows, North Devon.
The exercise saw the marines practise 'helicasting', which sees them jump from the back of helicopters into the sea.
It's a technique that gets commandos into the action quickly, dropping them from the back of helicopters into the ocean – from where they use their Zodiac raiding craft to strike at the enemy ashore.
"Helicasting is a means of putting Commando forces ashore along contested coastlines," said Major WIll Searight, Officer Commanding 40 Commando's Charlie Company.
"It's a technique best suited to small teams with a reconnaissance role, and one that both commandos and aircrew are looking to rediscover and further develop," he added.
The Royal Marines small boat raiding specialists from 47 Commando were also involved in the training.
Helicasting drills are just one part of the intensive training 40 Commando undergo to prepare for regular deployments as they begin to operate as the new Littoral Response Group (South).
Prior to the Chinook drop, commandos were put through tests that saw them swim and leap into the water carrying webbing and rifle from high boards, as well as swimming 200m wearing their uniform and kit.
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