Royal Marines vs. SBS

Attribute	Royal Marines	SBS
Branch of Military	British Royal Navy	British Royal Navy
Specialization	Amphibious warfare	Special Boat Service
Selection Process	Commando Course	Selection and training process
Role	Amphibious assaults, humanitarian aid, disaster relief	Special operations, counter-terrorism
Size	Approximately 7,000 personnel	Classified

Training

The Royal Marines and the Special Boat Service (SBS) are both elite units within the British Armed Forces, known for their rigorous training programs. The Royal Marines undergo a grueling 32-week training course at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) in Lympstone, Devon. This training includes physical fitness, weapons handling, fieldcraft, and amphibious operations. On the other hand, the SBS recruits are drawn from the Royal Marines and undergo additional specialized training in maritime counter-terrorism, close-quarters combat, and advanced navigation techniques.

Roles and Missions

While both the Royal Marines and the SBS are part of the UK's Special Forces, they have different roles and missions. The Royal Marines are primarily an amphibious infantry force, capable of conducting a wide range of operations, from raiding enemy positions to providing humanitarian assistance. In contrast, the SBS specializes in maritime counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and sabotage missions. They are often deployed in small teams behind enemy lines to gather intelligence or carry out covert operations.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Royal Marines and the SBS is notoriously tough and demanding. Potential Royal Marines recruits must pass a series of physical and mental tests, including a 30-mile march across Dartmoor with a full combat load. Those who make it through this phase then undergo further training at CTCRM. On the other hand, SBS selection is even more challenging, with recruits facing a grueling selection course known as the "Hills Phase." This phase includes long-distance marches, navigation exercises, and survival tasks in harsh conditions.

Equipment and Gear

Both the Royal Marines and the SBS are equipped with state-of-the-art gear and equipment to carry out their missions effectively. The Royal Marines are known for their distinctive green berets and combat uniforms, as well as their use of weapons such as the SA80 assault rifle and the L129A1 sharpshooter rifle. In comparison, the SBS operators are often equipped with specialized gear for maritime operations, including drysuits, rebreathers, and underwater weapons. They also have access to advanced communication and surveillance equipment for their missions.

Operational Deployments

Both the Royal Marines and the SBS have been deployed on numerous operational deployments around the world, often in support of UK military objectives or in response to global security threats. The Royal Marines have been involved in conflicts such as the Falklands War, the Gulf War, and the recent operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Similarly, the SBS has conducted numerous covert operations in support of counter-terrorism efforts, including hostage rescues and intelligence-gathering missions. They have also been deployed in maritime security roles, such as anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Royal Marines and the SBS are both elite units within the British Armed Forces, they have distinct differences in terms of training, roles, equipment, and missions. The Royal Marines are known for their amphibious capabilities and versatility in a wide range of operations, while the SBS specializes in maritime counter-terrorism and covert operations. Both units play a crucial role in UK military operations and are highly respected for their professionalism and expertise.