Maritime Reaction Squadron | |
---|---|
Founded | 2006 |
Country | South Africa |
Branch | South African Navy |
Type | Marines |
Role | Air assault Air-sea rescue Amphibious reconnaissance Amphibious warfare Anti-tank warfare Artillery observer Bomb disposal CBRN defense Close-quarters battle Disaster response Force protection Humanitarian aid HUMINT Maritime security Naval boarding Patrolling Peacekeeping Raiding Reconnaissance Special operations Underwater demolition |
Size | Squadron |
Part of | South African National Defence Force |
The Maritime Reaction Squadron (MRS) is a maritime force specialised infantry marines-like tier two special operations capable forces unit of the South African Navy (SA Navy) that provides a combat ready amphibious warfare, combat diving, commando style raids, helping victims of marine disasters or floods, providing security at naval base or shore stations, small boat capability to the SA Navy, support humanitarian assistance to victims of natural disasters, and underwater demolition. [1]
Formed as the Naval Rapid Deployment Force (NRDF) in 2005, [2] the MRS deploys infantry marines-trained South African Navy personnel in various peacekeeping roles within the African continent and to assist in boarding operations at sea, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief. [1]
The end of the South African Border War saw the disbandment of the South African Marine Corps, leaving the South African Navy without an amphibious warfare element. [3] After the integration of the South African National Defence Force the Navy was increasingly called on to assist with peace keeping operations. Realising that this situation would continue, the then Chief of the Navy Refiloe Johannes Mudimu, decided to create this capability by creating a Naval Rapid Deployment Force. [2] An Operational Boat Squadron was formed in 2006 [4] to ensure that South Africa could commit meaningfully to the peace keeping at the Great Lakes. [3]
The Rapid Deployment Force became the Maritime Reaction Squadron on 1 September 2006. [3] The unit was formally commissioned on 8 December 2008. [5] Following the creating of the MRS the Operational Boat Squadron was upgraded to the Operational Boat Division. [3]
The squadron consists of the following components:
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