📸 In Pictures: Head first into the Arctic

Demonstrating their ability to operate in all conditions, the Royal Marines are busy taking part in their annual cold weather training to become the next generation of winter warriors

Back here in the UK, the popularity of cold water swimming has soared during lockdown, with people taking to the cold water for an endorphin-releasing winter dip. This is something that Royal Marines are all too familiar with.

Every year the green berets venture to one of the harshest weather locations in the world, for their annual extreme weather training. With only four hours of daylight and extremely low temperatures, hundreds of commandos have been put through their paces, training to survive, move and fight in the freezing conditions.

First, those who are new to the Arctic must undergo a series of intensive trials to ensure they are able to survive, building shelters and living off the land. Of this, the most anticipated activity is the cold shock during the infamous ice-breaking drills which involves being plunged into a hole in the ice and climbing out of the water unassisted using ski poles.

• By sea, by land and by ice: Royal Marines in Norway
• Royal Marines take on the harsh conditions in Norway

🥶 Take a look at some highlights from their training so far:👇

A member of the Royal Marines takes part in the ice-breaking drills.

Members of the Commando Force refresh their skiing skills.

Commando Forces take part in ice-breaking drills.

In the Arctic, temperatures can plummet to -30 degrees.

The Royal Marines have deployed to the Arctic for many years for cold weather training.

The insertion yomp of Commando Forces during their Cold Weather Survival Course (CWSC).

The Commando Forces setting up 4 person tents during their Cold Weather Survival Course.

There are only around four hours of daylight in the Arctic.

Commando Forces during a kit inspection.

Find out where else the UK Armed Forces are deployed here 👇