French Army: 2300AD

Les Troupes de Marine

 

Introduction

 

The Troupes de Marines (TdM) are recognised by military cognoscenti as France’s most professional fighting troops, surpassing the more famous Légion Étrangère. They can be found anywhere the French military deploys and fill some of its most demanding roles. Their units include special forces, intervention troops, colonial garrisons, spearhead armoured forces and remote garrisons on Earth. The bulk of the TdM are infantry but there are also armour, artillery, engineers and support elements within the force.    

 

Narrative

 

The Bugs were closing in on Sergeant Carter’s small force of Texas Rifles and Francs-tireurs. Their raid on a Bug patrol base had gone seriously wrong, they’d been betrayed or blundered across some remote sensors. Carter didn’t know how it had happened but five of his men were now dead, or worse captured, and the remaining seven fugitives from a Bug mechanised platoon whose tracks were rattling around all to close to their refuge.

 

His mixture of Texans and Frommois were seriously scared, this was almost as bad as Armstrong’s Mountain. Carter had radioed out for support but hadn’t had any reply, things were not looking good. He had small arms and satchel charges but nothing that could reliably take on a track with its sensors. His only hope was to hide in the culverts to the rear of the hydroponics farm and wait until the Bugs got bored, stupid and wandered away. It wasn’t much of a plan but it was the best he could do… Hell of a way to go after all they’d been through.

 

He heard the popping of the missile first, then a crash of high explosive impact. Carter popped his head up from the ditch, to see a Bug track burning fiercely a hundred meters away. Bug infantry rolled out of the vehicle, some on fire, into a hail of 30mm which smashed and shattered them. A second track clattered to halt nearby and took another missile; plasma fire and grenades worked along its flank ripping through the thin hull.

 

Carter opened up with his M5 at the silhouetted Bugs, the others joining in, dropping those hidden from the fire of their rescuers. Then four figures dropped alongside them in the ditch, a grinning beret rouge noncom in the lead. He tapped Carter on the shoulder.

“You give cover?”

 

He didn’t really wait for an answer, but took his team out to hunt down the rest of the Kafers. Carter shook his head in admiration as they went. The Rifles were a crack unit by any estimate, but those French Marine Paras were just damn mean.    

 

Index

 

History

Order of Battle

Formations

Regiments

Organisation

Recruitment

Training

Culture

Uniform and Equipment

Personalities

Role Playing

Design Notes
Bibliography

 

History

 

The history of the Troupes de Marines is intimately bound up with the history of French colonialism and imperialism on Earth and off-world. For example companies of troops bearing the ‘Marine’ name were dispatched to Quebec in the 1680s and formed the regular nucleus of ‘New France’s’ defence against the British. Other units of troops served on ships as infantry and gunners while others formed overseas garrisons.

 

The modern Troupes de Marine can trace their organisation to 1821 when an ordnance provided for the creation of two regiments of marine infantry and one of artillery. The nicknames for the two branches were marsoins and bigors, or dolphins and sea-shells, and these are still in use in 2300AD.

 

The number of infantry regiments soon grew to three each with at least 30 companies deployed both in France and overseas in the colonies. By 1854 there were no fewer than 15 000 soldiers in 120 companies divided into four regiments. Two years later a battalion of fusiliers-marins was formed to take on the ship’s troop role and from then on the main role of the TdM was as soldiers on land. The TdM saw service both in the colonies and in the expedition to Mexico, the Crimean War and the Franco-Prussian War.

 

The TdM was also responsible for the organisation of locally raised units of the Tirailleurs Sénégalaise, many of who were not from Senegal but from other parts of Africa. They also controlled locally raised units elsewhere in French colonial territories such as Indochina. The Armée d’Afrique however was not under the control of the TdM.

 

In 1900 the TdM were renamed as the Troupes Coloniale, a title they would retain until after the loss of Indochina. The Coloniale gained a reputation as France’s elite during WW1, ending the war with seven divisions in the field. In the Régiment d’Infanterie Coloniale Marocaine the Coloniale had most highly decorated regiment in the French Army. They saw action on the Western Front, at Gallipoli and in the Balkans.

 

As for most of France the Coloniale had a difficult WW2, many of its units were destroyed by the Germans in 1940. However many Coloniale elements in the colonies would rally to the Free French and these formed the initial kernel of de Gaulle’s forces and even towards the end of the war three divisions of the 1st French Army were predominantly composed of Coloniale, although many of the original Tirailleurs Sénégalaise were replaced by white Frenchmen.

 

The Coloniale also played a key role in France’s wars of decolonization, heavily committed in Indochina and North Africa. Renamed once more as the TdM the marines were greatly reduced in size but continued a dual role. Elements of the TdM took their place in the French Army in Europe ready should the Cold War turn hot, whilst other units provided a French presence in former colonies of the Francophonie. In addition crack para regiments of the RPIMa provided an intervention force.

 

The Twilight War saw the TdM in action across the world, with the 9e DIMa deploying to Kuwait and other marine units were involved in the occupation of the Rhineland. The TdM received a new addition with the absorption of the Belgian Army whose Para-Commandos were transferred to the TdM. In addition the TdM again became involved with training African armies as the French Union brought Senegal very closely into the French orbit.

 

The TdM were a mainstay of the Paix Français throughout its existence starting with the Saudi War and were prominent in the intervention role in many crises. The TdM were at the forefront of the massive expansion of the French Union throughout much of Africa. This was a predominantly peaceful process with the consent of most of the Francophone French nations, although there were often anti-French elements which sometimes formed insurgencies. The TdM initially provide training cadres for the African forces, but this huge project proved beyond their resources and in the early 2100’s the Armée Métropolitaine integrated all African French Union units.

 

The discovery of stutterwarp and the establishment of off-world colonies brought about an expansion of the TdM as the marines were deployed with elements of the Légion to provide colonial garrisons. Although regular units of a reformed Coloniale and militias were soon raised the TdM continued to provide troops for the colonies, although in small numbers and usually as crack troops. In particular the RPIMa were used widely as colonial troubleshooters.

 

The Central Asian War saw the TdM pitched once more into high intensity combat with the 9e DIMa deployed as well as those TdM units serving with the Armée de Manœuvre. Some units of the RPIMa had converted to combat walker operations and these proved to be amongst the only Allied CWs that could go toe-to-toe with their Manchurian opponents. Following a move towards more lightly supported and faster moving forces the 9e DIMa was converted to a hover mobile armoured brigade which won many plaudits.

 

In the aftermath of this war the RPIMas were reorganised under the new Troupes d’Intervention Spatiale which would provide a fast moving fire brigade for operations in the colonies. The war with Germany saw the TdM play a less prominent role as many of its soldiers were deployed in Central Asia or the colonies, however the 9e DIMa once again saw ferocious action. The TdM maintained their fighting reputation however and were relatively unscathed by the swinging post-War military reforms.

 

The TdM have been heavily involved in the recent Kafer War, the RPIMas attached to the TIS fought desperate battles in the Beta Canum Cluster as have other battalions. The liberation campaign saw both 2e and 9e DIMa in action to throw back the aliens from human colonies. The highly trained and professional marsoins and bigors look likely to continue to be in the forefront of French military efforts against the Kafers. 

INDEX

 

Order of Battle

 

This is the TdM order of battle for Jan 2303. Units struck through are currently in cadre, those in bold italics are Kafer War raised formations and those in italics have been reformed after destruction or very serious damage.

 

1e Régiment d' Infanterie Chars de Marine

6e Régiment de Chars de Tirane de Marine

Régiment de Marche d'Éclaireurs de Marine

   

1e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

2e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

3e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

7e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

9e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

IV Bataillon

21e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

22e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

33e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

41e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

Régiment de Marche du Tchad 'Marines'

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine du Pacifique

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine de Guyana

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

 

1e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon
II Bataillon

III Bataillon

2e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

3e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

6e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

8e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

I Bataillon  

II Bataillon 

Régiment Para-Commando

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

 

1e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

3e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon

IV Bataillon

11e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

 

3e Régiment Génie de Marine

I Bataillon

II Bataillon

III Bataillon  

INDEX

 

Formations

 

There are a number of formations manned exclusively by the Troupes de Marine. These are assigned to rapid reaction forces on Earth and Tirane and the elite TIS. These formations have all seen heavy action in the Kafer War.

 

2e Division d'Infanterie de Marine

 

2e DIMa is currently deployed on the world of Beta Canum as part of the Armée de Libération and garrisons the international city of Adrian on the Southern Continent. The division is formed from Néo-Provençal TdM units and is normally stationed on that world in support of the Marine Impériale. In addition to its amphibious role in support of the navy it specialises in low intensity conflict. It was equipped with the ABR/VCIR family of wheeled vehicles but was re-equipped with the modern EBC-97 before deploying to the French Arm.

 

2e DIMa had already been deployed to the French Arm before being sent under the command of the famous Général Hébert to Elysia in the late 2280s. The division performed well, their conduct was contrasted with some of the Coloniale units, however the war was lost before they arrived and the division was repatriated following the cessation of hostilities. During the Kafer War the division was in the follow on force for the Armée de Libération and saw heavy combat on the streets of Fromme. It has since been dispatched to Beta Canum where it has been deployed on mopping up operations prior to stabilising Adrian.  

 

The division has earned a fine reputation but is seen as being hampered by its wheeled vehicles. It is due to return to Nouvelle Provence soon and will leave behind its EBR-97s for the rebuilding 9e Corps. On its arrival it will reorganise on the same lines as 9e DIMa and will gain the full range of AC-12/ACVI-4 HAFV and a newly raised CW battalion. 

 

6e Régiment de Chars de Tirane de Marine
I/13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine
II/13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine
III/13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine  

IV/13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

II/11e Régiment d’Artillerie de Marine

I/3e Régiment de Génie de Marine

9e DIMa Régiment de Commandement et de Soutain  

 

9e Division d'Infanterie de Marine

 

This division is 2e DIMa’s Terran equivalent and is currently deployed on Kimanjano on the French Arm with the Armée de Libération. The division was organised and trained as part of the Force d’Action Rapide on Earth as a forced entry unit for operations in conjunction with the Marine Impériale. It is equipped with the most modern HAFV and can double as a more than respectable hovermobile shock formation.

 

9e DIMa converted to this role in the Central Asian War following on from the success of the Groupe Mobile Légion Étrangère. These two formations provided professional spearheads to a largely conscript French military effort and 9e DIMa retained this role after the end of the war. The division spent mucg of the War of German Reunification’s ‘Phoney War’ stood to in Brittany for a possible raid onto the German coastline which never materialised. As the fighting erupted the division was heavily involved in the French drive to Stuttgart where it had a ferocious contest with the Bavarian ‘Ghost Division’.

 

9e DIMa was one of the first reinforcement divisions dispatched along the French Arm in response to the Invasion but was held at Beowulf even before the Fall of Kimanjano. It was in the second wave of the Liberation of Kimanjano with planners expecting the division to provide a reserve. The Kafer counter-attack however forced the 9e DIMa to be fed into the battle in penny packets as they arrived. Fighting desperately in isolation the marines helped hold the landing zones but at a fearsome price. The division was immediately withdrawn for a period of rebuilding.      

 

The division went back in to the line with the launch of the main phase of the Battle of Fromme with the highly mobile 2e Corps screening the city itself. In two weeks of high intensity manoeuvre warfare the Kafers were finally defeated with the 9e DIMa playing a key role being called upon to smash two key Kafer defensive positions. The division then was involved in clearing the Azanian colony and the running fight to reduce other Kafer remnants in the months that followed. 9e DIMa remains on Kimanjano but is due to return to Earth, it has taken severe casualties in men and material but once again emerged with great plaudits as the most heavily decorated French unit of the Armée de Libération.

 

It should be noted that the division’s integral combat walker unit II/1e RIMa did not serve with the division. Instead it had been seconded to the Armée d’Aurore prior to the invasion. It will return to Earth at the same time as the rest of the 9e DIMa. The division operates as two Demi-Brigades and so is regarded as a mini- Division de Marche.  

 

1e Régiment d'Infanterie Chars de Marine
I/1e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine
I/2e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine
II/3e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine  

II/1e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine (CW – Detached Armée d’Aurore)

I/11e Régiment d’Artillerie de Marine

I/3e Régiment de Génie de Marine

9e DIMa Régiment de Commandement et de Soutain

 

2e Brigade d'Intervention

 

Despite its numbering the 2e BI was the first of the new Brigades d’Intervention formed towards the end of the Central Asian War. It saw immediate action being deployed to the frontiers of the French Arm to help fight the Elysian Revolt and the French defeat caused much bitterness in its ranks. The brigade was deployed on Tirane during the war with Germany and didn’t see action although many contingency plans were drawn up against a range of potential targets in theatre. Since then it has worked alongside Freihafen’s emerging intervention and specialist Raumwaffe forces. Elements of the brigade saw action early in the Kafer War but the bulk of the brigade was held in reserve until the invasion of Kimanjano.

 

Elements of I/8e RPIMa saw action in Operation ENTENTE and the brigade then formed a vital spearhead in the assault on Kimanjano interdicting key routes into the landing zones and suffering heavy casualties. The brigade continued to fight on for a further two months, often in support of the 2e DLB or in conducting raiding operations. The brigade was then withdrawn to rest and refit taking on the role of stand-by BI for the French Arm.  

 

I/8e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine (CW)

I/2e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

1/Régiment Para-Commando  

2e BI Compagnie de Commandement et de Soutain  

2e Compagnie de Génie de Parachutistes  

2e Compagnie d'Artillerie d'Élite de Parachutistes  

 

3e Brigade d'Intervention

 

3e BI was formed in 2290 and saw action as ship’s troops in the Sol system and conducted innumerable boarding actions and a number of seizures of German stations or mines. Although tasked as the stand-by BI for the French Arm the brigade deployed only following the fall of BCB. The brigade divided with some elements with the Reserve Fleet and other at Kimanjano. I/3e RPIMa fought in the invasion of Kimanjano in a near commando role and after the fall of the colony became inevitable dispersed to form a resistance nucleus. II/8e RPIMa was involved in Op ENTENTE, providing the covering force alongside the British 2 PARA.

 

The remnants of 3e BI did not take part in the liberation of Kimanjano, instead providing a reserve force. The force would later be the French spearhead on Beta Canum, becoming respectively the seventh and either TdM TIS battalions to assault land on Beta Canum. The liberation of Kimanjano saw the cadres of 1/3e RPIMa reform into a battalion and the elements of the brigade on Beta Canum were soon withdrawn. 3e BI was quickly returned to Earth to regenerate a French rapid reaction capability in the core.  

 

II/2e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

I/3e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

II/8e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

3e BI Compagnie de Commandement et de Soutain

3e Compagnie de Génie de Parachutistes  

3e Compagnie d'Artillerie d'Élite de Parachutistes

 

4e Brigade d' Intervention

 

Formed in 2291 and routinely stationed at Earth the 4e BI is also normally tasked to prepare for operations on the Chinese or American Arms. It was dispatched with the assault ship Valmy and 4e DdD landing group in conjunction with the Napoléon battle group in order to relieve Aurore. Ultimately the brigade was instead attached to Admiral Rochemont’s Fleet and operated with him throughout the Invasion. 

 

The brigade spearheaded the liberation of Crater, a landing that nearly failed due to Kafer opposition on the landing zone and then went on to take part in the 2nd Liberation of Beta Canum, subsequently seeing heavy action on the German Continent. The brigade took heavy casualties in action against Kafer mechanised forces but was ultimately successful. It engaged also in the liberation of the French Continent before being re-tasked. After a period of regeneration the brigade was re-tasked to act as ship’s troops for several key French warships hunting down Kafer survivors.

 

I/6e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

II/6e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine  

2/Régiment Para-Commando  

4e BI Compagnie de Commandement et de Soutain  

4e Compagnie de Génie de Parachutistes  

4e Compagnie d'Artillerie d'Élite de Parachutistes

INDEX

 

Organisation

 

Bataillon de Cavalerie Blindée

 

There are only two BCBs in the TdM, RICM and I/1e RIMa both assigned to 9e DIMa. These BCB are pure hovertank battalions and are equipped with the modern AC-12bis. The BCB does not have the integral all-arms capability of the BCBM but in the 9e DIMa they operate in permanent Demi-Brigades with the two BFAMs.

 

The BCB is organised with 3 hovertank Escadrons and a command and service Escadron. The hovertank Escadron are organised with four 3 tank troops and a command troop. In total the BCB has 41 AC-12bis and numerous support and service vehicles.

 

Bataillon de Cavalerie Mécanisés

 

Organised almost identically to the BCB except being equipped with the new EBR-97 wheeled AFV there is a single BCM in the TdM, the 6e RBTMa. This unit is due to re-organise as a BCB on its return to Tirane.  

 

Bataillon de Cavalerie de Reconnaissance  

 

There is only one TdM unit which officially has this organisation the RMEMa, and this unit has not finished its transition and is not fully up to strength. It has the standard three manoeuvre Escadrons and a command and support Escadron. The sabre Escadrons have three reconnaissance troops equipped with ACR-89s, a hovertank troop for support and a support troop of ACVI-3s carrying dismounted troopers and UAVs.  

 

Bataillon de Fantassins Aéromobiles

 

There are around six TdM battalions in the BFA role, mostly deployed in Africa, Guyana or the colonies. It has four rifle companies, a support company (CEA) and a HQ company (CCS). The rifle companies have three rifle platoons and a HQ with small integral anti-tank and anti-aircraft elements. The support company has reconnaissance, mortar, anti-tank and anti-aircraft elements. The command company has the usual combat support elements and a pioneer platoon which also functions as a defence platoon.      

 

Bataillon de Fantassins Légers

 

BFLs are garrison infantry units with only three rifle companies and a reduced support company. In the TdM these are most often found in garrison roles on Earth in the Caribbean or Pacific.  

 

Bataillon de Fantassins Aéro-Mécanisés

 

The TdM has four battalions in the BFAM role serving with 9e DIMa, 2e DB and 17e DM. They are all equipped with the ACVI-4 and are highly trained in manoeuvre warfare. The BFAM has four manoeuvre companies, a CEA and a CCS. The companies have three rifle platoons and a support platoon in addition to the usual headquarters.

 

Bataillon de Fantassins Légers Aéro-Mécanisés

 

The BFLAM is almost identical to the BFAM except they operate in the 1e and 2e DLB. The difference is in the versatility of the training opportunities, but they are also equipped with ACVI-4s. I/3e RIMa is the only battalion in this role and is attached to the 1e DLB.  

 

Bataillon de Fantassins Mécanisés

 

BFMs are very similar to BFAMs but are equipped with wheeled AFVs. The TdM has a number of BFMs in medium intensity roles in garrisons on Earth and in the Colonies. Notably the entire 2e DIMa is a mechanised formation. The TdM operates a mixture of VCIR and EBR-97s.

 

Bataillon de Chasseurs à Pied Blindée

 

BCPB are French combat walker units of which there are five in the TdM. Each has 4 CW companies, a CEA and CSS. Each company has two platoons of walkers with a small HQ for a total of 24 walkers. In total the BCPB has 100 frontline walkers but also hold a reserve of 25 walkers to replace maintenance and combat losses. Three of these units are crack RPIMa battalions, one is attached to 9e DIMa and the other is being raised for the 2e DIMa. They operate a mixture of BH-21s and the newly introduced BH-25 which is being pushed first to the RPIMa units.

 

Bataillon de Fantassins des Troupes d’Intervention Spatiale

 

The BFTIS is France’s most capable light infantry organisation, used by its most elite intervention forces. It includes four rifle companies, a reinforced CEA and a CCS. It has double the normal complement of anti-tank weapons, its second AT platoon being manned by the pioneers, and an integral commando platoon. What makes the real difference for these units is the quality of training and rigorous selection of personnel. No fewer than seven battalions from the RPIMa and Para-Commandos have this organisation.

 

Bataillon de Troupes Spéciales  

 

All three battalions of 1e RPIMa are organised as BTS, France’s default special forces organisation. It includes 4 RAPAS companies as well as the usual support elements.

 

Bataillon d’Artillerie Légère Aéro-Mécanise

 

BALAMs are hovermobile MRL artillery units and make up much of the TdMs artillery strength. They have three strong batteries and a command and support batteries. 

 

Bataillon d’Artillerie Légère

 

BALs are artillery assigned to the support of light forces. They have three artillery batteries, one with MRLs and two with light gauss howitzers. The weapons are carried on light hovermobile platforms, although the guns can be dismounted if needs be.  

 

Bataillon du Génies Aéro-Mécanise

 

The BGAM is a versatile hovermobile engineer unit intended to support hovermobile formations. The bulk of the vehicles are converted ACVI-3s although there is a vast range of specialist models. The BGAM has three field engineer companies and a heavy engineer company and a GCS.  

 

Bataillon du Génies Mécanise

 

The BGM is the wheeled equivalent of the BGAM.

INDEX

 

Regiments

 

1e Régiment d'Infanterie Chars de Marine

 

1e RICM – BCB – 9e DIMa, Kimanjano

 

The RICM has its roots in the Régiment d’Infanterie Coloniale Marocaine, a unit that was the most highly decorated French regiment of the 1st World War surpassing even the RMLE a status it retains still. Even today the RICM rejoices in being the “Premier Régiment de France”. It saw service in France’s wars of decolonisation in Indochina and Algeria before being renamed with its current title, although maintaining its Moroccan heritage on its insignia. The unit was heavily involved in the Middle East in the Twilight Era and Saudi War, winning further plaudits.

 

As the premier armoured unit of the TdM the RICM often had sub-units deployed in support of other units, even if the whole regiment wasn’t deployed and so saw almost continuous action during the Paix Française. The RICM has seen action against Manchurians, Germans and Kafers in recent years and continues to rack up battle honours and awards. Today the RICM is with 9e DIMa, a formation it has been a part of for over three centuries, on Kimanjano.   

 

6e Régiment de Chars de Tirane de Marine

 

6e RBTMa – BCM – 2e DIMa, Beta Canum-4

 

6e RBTMa has its roots in the VI/1e Régiment Coloniale de Cavalerie, created in 2174 to be part of the growing locally recruited garrison of Nouvelle Provence on Tirane. The unit was brigade with I, II and III/2e RIC in what was an emergent rapid reaction formation to operate alongside similar Légion and TdM units. When Nouvelle Provence became part of Metropolitan France the VI/6e RCC was transferred into the TdM as 6e RBTMa, I/2e RIC similarly became the I/13e RIMa.

 

The unit has mostly been deployed on Tirane and has seen action in helping to suppress a small number of revolts in the colony with a mixture of force and persuasion, something the 2e DIMa became regarded as very adept at. The unit also became practised at littoral operations. The first real action came when the unit was deployed to Elysia with 2e DIMa and was involved in a range of combat operations. 6e RBTMa was active very deep inside Maquis Verte enclaves and later tried but failed to halt the advance of 1e Groupement de Combat d' Elysia Libre as it precipitated the collapse of the French colonial government.

 

Repatriated the unit was stood to for operations in Garten in support of anti-Reunificationist Bavarians under a variety of contingency plans which were never activated. The unit was sent to the French Arm again with 2e DIMa and has seen high intensity combat on both Kimanjano and Beta Canum. It is due to return to Nouvelle Provence shortly and re-equip with AC-12bis hovertanks.      

 

Régiment de Marche d'Éclaireurs de Marine

   

RMEMa - BCE – 3e DMC, Beta Canum-4

 

The RMEMa, or the ‘Emmas’ are a Kafer War raised unit formed from the remnants of I/21e RIMa, destroyed in the 101e DAMs doomed stand at the Beanstalk terminal, and a mixture of civilian volunteers and TdM reservists who rallied in New Africa. Given a reconnaissance tasking, an organisation of two understrength companies and equipped with soft skinned ACVs the ‘Emmas’ were truly a private army.

 

However they were disciplined and given intensive, if not lengthy, training and performed well in minor raiding and in action on the German Continent. The formed the recce element of the Division de Marche de Liberation, later 3e DMC, and fought in the liberation of the French Continent. They have grown in strength, absorbing numerous volunteers. It is unknown what will happen to the unit, it might be re-named and regularised as a new I/21e RIMa, transferred to the Coloniale or Milice, or simply disbanded.  

 

1e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/1e RIMa – BCB – 9e DIMa, Kimanjano

II/1e RIMa – BCPB – 9e DIMa, Kimanjano

III/1e RIMa – BFM – 105e BM, Adlerhorst

 

1e RIMa traces its history back to 1822 and has seen action across the globe since that time including China and Mexico. The regiment was destroyed by the Germans in 1940 but was reformed in 1945 from the basis of Free French TdM units that had fought across North Africa, Italy, southern France and into Germay. The regiment was reduced to a single battalion regiment following the loss of Algeria, but expanded again during the Paix Française.

 

Two of 1e RIMa’s battalions are assigned to 9e DIMa, although II/1e RIMa was detached to Aurore and fought separately in the last round of the Kafer War. I/1e RIMa in particular has taken heavy casualties in action on Kimanjano. III/1e RIMa was also on the French Arm having been deployed on Adlerhorst since 2293, it was heavily hit as a source of reinforcements for 4e BI during the war, and has since been re-equipped with ACVI-4s and fresh manpower to become a part of 105e BM.

 

2e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/2e RIMa – BFAM – 9e RIMa, Kimanjano

II/2e RIMa – BFA – 8e DAM, Djibouti

III/2e RIMa – Cadre

 

2e RIMa is another highly decorated regiment which was formed at the same time as 1e RIMa and had similar experiences, being destroyed in the Franco-Prussian War and seeing heavy action in the Great War. It would see service in Indochina, Algeria and the Middle East in the century following the 2nd World War.

 

One of the regiment’s battalions was destroyed in the Kafer invasion of Kimanjano and has not yet been re-established. Another served in the 9e DIMa that helped in the liberation of Kimanjano. The remaining battalion serves in the airmobile role with 8e DAM based in Djibouti.   

 

3e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/3e RIMa – BFLAM – 1e DLB, Beta Canum

II/3e RIMa – BFAM – 9e DIMa, Kimanjano

 

Another of the historic TdM regiments with widespread service across the world 3e RIMa was the first post-WW2 French unit to become all professional in 1970 forging a path for the rest of the TdM to follow. It won a supurb reputation in action in the Middle East during the Saudi War as a single unit and would later expand into a two battalion regiment.

 

I/3e RIMa is a part of the elite 1e DLB and saw severe action in the liberation of Kimanjano, holding a key portion of the landing zone perimeter. It later played a full part in the Battle of Fromme before re-embarking for Beta Canum. II/3e RIMa also served in the Kimanjano campaign with the 9e DIMa.    

 

7e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/7e RIMa – BFL – Réunion 

 

7e RIMa is a regiment with a more sedate role than most serving as the garrison for the Indian Ocean island of Réunion, hardly the most dangerous post in the French Empire. Service in I/7e RIMa is a reward for long service and good conduct.

 

9e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/9e RIMa – BFA – CECdoGy, Guyana

II/9e RIMa – BFA – CECdoGy, Guyana

 

9e RIMa has its roots in the 2e Régiment de Marche du Tonkin, a TdM/Coloniale garrison unit in Indochina which was ultimately destroyed by the Japanese in 1945. The unit later reformed more permanently as the 9e RIC then 9e RIMa in Algeria for that campaign before eventually reforming again in French Guyane. The regiment has remained based in Guyane and later Guyana ever since. The regiment is the TdM’s centre of excellence for jungle warfare, and elements of it have served in numerous locations with similar terrain across Earth and the colonies. There are rumours one of these battalions may deploy to Beta Canum for operations in New Africa’s K-Zone.   

 

13e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I Bataillon – BFM – 2e DIMa, Beta Canum-4

II Bataillon – BFM – 2e DIMa, Beta Canum-4

III Bataillon – BFM – 2e DIMa, Beta Canum-4

IV Bataillon – BCPB – (2e DIMa), Tirane

 

13e RIMa was formed from the old I/2e RIC when Nouvelle Provence was integrated into Metropolitan France. Initially only a single battalion strong the regiment quickly expanded to three battalions. Later in 2302 following a decision to re-organise 2e DIMa to the same structure as 9e DIMa a fourth battalion of combat walkers was raised, and this is still in training. Like 6e RBTMa, 13e RIMa has seen operational service in the Elysian and Kafer Wars. It retains most of its Néo-Provençal character.

 

21e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/21e RIMa - Cadre

II/21e RIMa – BFA – 6e DAM, West Africa

 

Initially formed as the 2e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine de Garnison this unit was soon renamed the 21e RIC. It saw heavy action in WW1 but was destroyed in 1940 and reformed by the ‘blanchiment’ of the 4e Régiment de Tirailleurs Sénégalais in 1944. It saw service in Algeria before becoming a mechanised infantry formation in the 6e DLB. The unit was one of the first TdM formations to be sent to Tirane where it was based for many years.

 

I/21e RIMa was based on Beta Canum after the War of German Reunification and has seen service on Adlerhorst. Elements of the battlion served on Aurore but the unit was destroyed with most of the 101e DAM in their defence of the Beanstalk terminal. Survivors went on to form the RMEMa. II/21e RIMa is an airmobile battalion based in West Africa which is frequently deployed to trouble spots in the region. 

 

22e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/22e RIMa– BFA – 8e DAM, Central Africa

II/22e RIMa – BFA – 1e DIMaC, Beowulf

 

Descended from the 4e Régiment d'infanterie de Marine de Garnison this regiment has gone through numerous changes in name and designation. However it has spent much of its recent history as a frontline force deployed in the colonies. It saw significant action in the Central Asian War, notably in the clearing of the capital. Today I/22e RIMa is stationed in French Central Africa where it alternates between serving in the borders with providing a quick reaction force for the Beanstalk. II/22e RIMa is stationed in Nouvelle Europe where it operates in the naval infantry role.

 

33e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/33e RIMa – BFL – Martinique

II/33e RIMa – BFL – Guadeloupe 

 

33e RIMa has a long history as the French garrison in her territories in the Carribbean. Like 7e RIMa many of its soldiers are deserving long service marines, however it also recruits many members of the local population.

 

41e Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/41e RIMa – BFM - Nouvelle Caledonie 

 

Another TdM regiment which has largely served as a garrison force in France’s terrestrial territories, 1/41e RIMa today serves in New Caledonia in the Pacific and is very similar to I/7e RIMa in its composition.

 

Régiment de Marche du Tchad 'Marines'

 

I/RMT – BFAM – 2e DB, Central Asian Republic

II/RMT – BFAM – 17e DM, North Africa

 

Yet another heavily decorated unit which even has US Presidential Unit Citation. As a unit of Tirailleurs Sénégalais deployed in Chad the RMT was the first formed body to rally entirely to the Free French cause in WW2 and throughout was closely linked to the future Maréchal Leclerc. It fought across Africa and as the infantry component of the 2e DB liberated Paris in 1944. More recently it saw major action against both the Manchurians and the French. The regiment has a reputation as being somewhat contrary, no one doubts their fighting qualities but they can sometimes be insular and less than helpful. The RMT sees itself as an elite within the TdM and has specialised as an armoured infantry force

 

I/RMT continues the regiment’s long links with the 2e DB with whom it is currently deployed to the Armée de l'Asie Centrale. II/RMT is a part of the 17e DM and is currently stationed in Algeria. The regiment has a strong West African contingent.

 

Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine du Pacifique

 

I/RIMaP– BFM - Nouvelle Calédonie 

II/RIMaP – BFL – Polynésie

 

The RIMaP is a regiment recruited from France’s Pacific territories and is part of the garrison responsible for their protection. The marsoins of the RIMaP serve under different conditions from most of their TdM colleagues and cannot be deployed outside of the Pacific in normal circumstances. Many committed soldiers from RIMaP transfer to the mainstream of the TdM and serve in other units. 

 

Régiment d'Infanterie de Marine de Guyana

 

I/RIMaGy– BFM - Guyana

II/RIMaGy – BFM - Guyana

III/RIMaGy – BFM - Guyana

 

RIMaGy is a regiment locally raised in Guyana for the defence of that territory. Its soldiers serve under similar conditions to the RIMaP although elements have served in neighbouring Venezula in recent years. The regiment’s three battalions are mechanised infantry, however they are also highly trained in jungle operations.

 

1e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/1e RPIMa – BTS – GTS de TIS

II/1e RPIMa – BTS – GTS de Terre

III/1e RPIMa – BTS – GTS de FAR

 

1e RPIMa is the TdM’s dedicated special forces regiment and as such is regarded as perhaps the most elite element of an already crack corps. It traces its roots to the French SAS formed in Britain during WW2 and has a long and distinguished history as a special forces unit. Elements of 1e RPIMa can usually be found wherever French interests are threatened. The unit recruits from other units of the TdM running volunteers them through the testing Rapière course. The three battalions are assigned to the TIS, FAR and for general operations on Earth.   

 

2e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/2e RPIMa – BTIS – 2e BI, Kimanjano

II/2e RPIMa – BCPB – 3e BI, Earth

 

2e RPIMa was formed in the dramatic expansion of French airborne forces in Indochina following WW2. Initially they were a para-commando formation, before re-roling to a more conventional para role and saw action in Indochina and Algeria and took part in the drop on Suez. The unit was then dispatched to Reunion in the Indian Ocean where it maintained a French presence for many year – deploying frequently in support of the Paix Française. The unit then became the first French para unit to deploy to Tirane and has seen frequent deployments to the colonies in the past 150 years.

 

2e RPIMa served several tours in Central Asia but missed out on the War with Germany being deployed on Beta Canum at the time. Both battalions have seen serious action in the Kafer War, although II/2e RPIMa has since returned to Earth with 3e BI.   

 

3e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/3e RPIMa– BTIS, 3e BI, Earth

II/3e RPIMa – BTIS, TIS Earth

 

Another Indochina era regiment, it fought at Dien Bien Phu, the 3e RPIMa has perhaps the highest fighting reputation of any TdM unit. Once led by the legendary Marcel Bigeard 3e RPIMa is determined to uphold the aggressive tradition it developed under him. 3e RPIMa has never been far from the frontline since its formation and was very highly decorated for its part in the Central Asian War. I/3e RPIMa fought in the commando and stay-behind role in Kimanjano with great success. II/3e RPIMa is the TIS reserve battalion and was brought forward to bolster 3e BI during the Liberation. Both battalions have now returned to Earth.  

 

6e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/6e RPIMa– BCPB – 4e BI, French Arm

II/6e RPIMa – BTIS – 4e BI, French Arm

 

6e RPIMa is yet another unit raised for Indochina and also was destroyed at Dien Bien Phu. Reformed it saw action in Algeria and the usual wide variety of operations in support of the Paix Française. Elements of both battalions of the regiment fought at the Battle of Omsk and were amongst the last units to surrender when the defence collapsed. A reformed ‘bataillon de marche’ of the unit gained rapid revenge during the Allied counter-offensive destroying a Manchurian corps HQ in a daring assault. Both battalions served in the 4e BI under command of Rochemont during the Kafer War and have seen heavy action on Crater and Beta Canum. I/6e RPIMa is a CW unit and is re-equipping with new BH-25s. 

 

8e Régiment Parachutiste d'Infanterie de Marine

 

I/8e RPIMa – BCPB – 2e BI, Kimanjano

II/8e RPIMa – BTIS – 3e BI, Earth

 

Another veteran of Indochina, Dien Bien Phu and north Africa 8e RPIMa has had a typically wide array of experience operating anywhere French interests were threatened. I/8e RPIMa was one of the first French combat walker units and gained a high reputation in the CAW. The battalion also served on Aurore from 2298 to 2300. Both battalions have been heavily involved in the Kafer War, II/8e RPIMa in particular gaining glory during Operation ENTENTE. 

 

Régiment Para-Commando

 

I/Para-Cdo – BTIS – 2e BI, Kimanjano

II/Para-Cdo – BTIS – 4e BI, French Arm

 

The Régiment Para-Commando was originally part of the Belgian Army and became a part of the TdM when Belgium joined the French Union. Descended from WW2 Belgian SAS and Commando forces the regiment has a proud and distinctive heritage from the other TdM para forces. The unit continues to recruit heavily from the Walloon départements and was relatively little affected by the War of Flemish Independence. Like the rest of the TdM parachute units the regiment has been prominent in the frontline against the Kafers.      

 

1e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

 

I/1e RAMa – BALAM - 2e DB

II/1e RAMa – BALAM - 17e DM

 

1e RAMa traces its history back to 1692 and the creation of the ‘corps royal d'artillerie de la marine’. The regiment has a long and illustrious history including service in the Napoleonic Wars, Mexico, Crimea as well as fighting for the Free French in WW2. The regiment has traditionally provided firepower for heavy units of the French Army and this continues today with one unit supporting the famous 2e DB and the other 17e DM.

 

3e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

 

I/3e RAMa– BAL - 7e DAM

II/3e RAMa – BAL - 6e DAM

III/3e RAMa – TIS

IV/3e RAMa – BALAM - Guyana

 

3e RAMa is a regiment of more modern vintage than 1e RAMa tracing a history back to the early 1800s. The regiment has specialised in supporting light formations in recent years and it provides fire power for two Africa based DAMs, three BIs and TdM forces in Guyana.

 

11e Régiment d'Artillerie de Marine

 

I/11e RAMa – BALAM - 9e DIMa

II/11e RAMa – BALAM - 2e DIMa

 

11e RAMa shares much of the same history as 1e RAMa until the 1920s when it became a unit in its own right. The regiment provides fire support for the DIMas. II/11e RAMa is a predominantly Néo-Provençal battalion.  

 

6e Régiment Génie de Marine

 

I/6e RGMa – BGAM - 9e DIMa

II/6e RGMa – BGM - 2e DIMa

III/6e RGMa – TIS

 

6e RGMa provides combat engineering support to the three TdM BIs and the DIMas.  

INDEX

 

Recruitment

 

The Troupes de Marine recruits from across the French Empire’s Metropolitan population. This includes not only European France and France’s minor overseas territories such as Martinique or Réunion, but France’s African territories, Guyana and the Tiranean colony of Nouvelle Provence. All in all a potential recruiting pool of just under 650 million people. In addition the TdM will recruit French Colonial citizens, but only if they are currently resident in the Metropole when they volunteer.

 

The TdM is a corps composed of long-service regulars. It holds a prestigious place in France’s military pantheon, even in the worst debacles of recent fighting against Manchurians, Germans and Kafers the marines have rarely been found wanting. As a result the TdM is usually oversubscribed with volunteers allowing itself to pick and choose some of the best manpower the Empire has to offer. It should be noted that the TdM allow both male and female volunteers, however all must pass its rigorous selection procedure to the same standards.

 

The TdM will accept any volunteer over the age of 18 who has passed a Baccalaureate, although such a soldier will have to undertake to study for a degree whilst serving. Currently over 66% of the TdM already have degrees before joining, although traditionally this figure has been much lower. Once passed selection the soldier must sign on for an initial period of 3 years, which can later be extended up to 30 years total service depending on rank achieved. Officers are recruited from France’s military academies and also from Aspirants serving in the ranks.  

 

Historically until the last fifty years the TdM has been predominantly manned by volunteers from European France. When conscription was in place many conscripts transferred to the TdM on completion of service, whilst others joined the TdM as regulars rather than serve as conscripts in the Armée Métropolitaine. The replacement of conscription with voluntary service has changed the European recruiting dynamics somewhat with a drop in direct recruiting as the more professional Armée Métropolitaine attracts more recruits.

 

A dramatically increasing proportion of recruits has come from Nouvelle Provence since its incorporation into the Metropole. Many young people keen to soldier and see more of the Union/Empire have flocked to the colours of the TdM, especially since the Central Asian War and this surge has yet to tail off. The Néo-Provençal influence is especially strong in units like 13e RIMa, but is notable throughout the corps and in total numbers has now surpassed that of European French. Most sub-units of the TdM would not be complete without a laconic Néo-Provençal NCO. 

 

The African French have also contributed strongly to the corps, although most of these recruits come from sub-Saharan Africa as the Algerians tend to stick to their local formations. The African recruits are noted for their high levels of educational achievement with most being drawn from the wide middle-class. The officer corps of the TdM has a strong kernel of excellent African French, especially at the battalion command level, who came up through the Central Asian War.

 

The TdM also recruits a significant number of soldiers from Guyana and the Pacific, predominantly in the five battalions recruited specifically from those territories. Many Pacific Islanders go on to transfer to other parts of the TdM.

 

Mainstream TdM regiments are mostly of mixed ethnic composition, although there are some exceptions. 13e RIMa is still strongly manned by soldiers from Nouvelle Provence, RMT is predominantly African French and the Para-Commandos are mostly of Walloon extraction.  

 

Breakdown

 

The table below shows the late 2299 breakdown of TdM soldiers by place of birth within the Empire. 

 

 

%

Number

French (European)

30

12600

French (Walloon)

4

1680

French (North African)

2

840

French (West African)

5

2100

French (Central African)

12

5040

French (Guyanan)

6

2520

French (Pacific Islands)

3

1260

French (Terran Other)

1

420

French (Néo-Provençal)

35

14700

French (Colonial Other)

2

840

 

100

42000

 

INDEX

Training

 

The TdM conduct the bulk of their training in-house, and share the ideal that every marsoin  should be an infantry soldier first and foremost with other marine corps around the world. The TdM’s basic training course consequently lasts some six months, which is enough to produce a competent infantry soldier. On the conclusion of this they are then dispatched for further training in the specialisations at the appropriate training facility alongside other members of the French Army.

 

The TdM have two training facilities one on Earth and one on Tirane, these are also responsible for in-house NCO and officer training courses as well as specialist courses such as the TdM’s own basic commando training.    

 

The TdM takes its officers from a variety of sources. It recruits directly from the army’s officer training academies such as St.Cyr, Desaix and the Académie Militaire Coloniale, and these make up the bulk of the commissioned officers. It commissions soldiers from the ranks through an officer candidate school a process that provides the corps with nearly half of its officers including some of the TdMs finest officers. Tension between the two groups can be notable as competition for promotion increases and many transfer to less competitive arms of the military.  

 

The TdM trains all of its NCOs in-house in a process that shares much with its officer candidate school, both courses stress in field training and leadership development and are very stringent. As a result the TdM produces some of the finest NCOs in the French Army, a fact that is widely recognised within the army. A shortened version of this course is used as the basis for the TdM’s own commando qualification.

 

The TdM dispatches its soldiers to specialist courses run by other arms of the Army for specialist training, for example in operating hovertanks, artillery or HAPCs. It does its best to ensure that its soldiers are well prepared and acquit themselves admirably when they attend these courses. 

 

The TdM’s BIs and DIMas undertake a lot of cross training with equivalent foreign units on and off-Earth. In the colonies TdM forces often undertake ‘defence diplomacy’ which might be inappropriate for locally raised units to undertake. For instance on Beowulf the only cross-training with British and Alician units is undertaken by TdM formations.

INDEX

 

Culture

 

The TdM is a force which prides itself on its professionalism and its esprit de corps. Although much of the Armée Métropolitaine committed to the Armée de Manœuvre and Force d’Action Rapide is also now fully professional the TdM still regards itself as the leading edge of the French Army. Its relations with the more internationally famous Légion Étrangère are correct, if sometimes patronising, with the TdM regarding the Légion as relatively unsophisticated shock troops. 

 

The TdM’s esprit de corps is reinforced by its training policy, its operational success and its nurturing of its leadership cadre. The TdM is also very careful to maintain the traditions and identities of its regiments, although it frequently cross-posts personnel between them. Units like the RICM, RMT and the RPIMas have individual traditions as strong as those of any British Army regiment.

 

The TdM is a perhaps a unique snap shot of the cross section of the French Empire, with soldiers from every part of the Empire in its ranks. Consequently it receives the lion’s share of Francophone media attention when it deploys on operations, a fact not appreciated by more mundane units. In fact the TdM are often resented by the units they work alongside.   

 

As the Légion has it Camerone Day the marines have their own festival day on the 31st of August each year. This commemorates the battle of the ‘Division Bleue’ of marines at Bazeilles in 1870 during the Franco-Prussian War.    

 

As has been noted many regiments have their own strong traditions developed over the years. For example 3e RIMa units have bagpipes in their bands, and most celebrate their own regimental days.

INDEX

 

Uniform and Equipment

 

The marines use standard French equipment across the board, indeed the TdM are at the front of the queue when it comes to new equipment. They are often called upon to test new equipment prior to it going into wide service. I/8e RPIMa’s trailing and development of the new BH-25 is a case in point. 

 

The TdM are equipped with the standard and well known Tenue de Combat Mle 2298 and the new pattern Mle 2298 helmet in most units. The TdM units assigned to the TIS or in the airmobile role use the older Mle 2245 helmet which is somewhat less cumbersome. The only TdM units not to wear the ‘blues’ are the elite 1e RPIMa who have access to whichever uniforms are most appropriate for the task at hand.  

 

The symbol of the TdM is the traditional anchor of western marine forces. This is worn by all marines as an écusson on the left arm. The anchor symbol is also worn by almost all TdM soldiers on their headgear. The exception are the RPIMa, which wear a combination of the anchor with the wing and dagger of the Troupes Aeroportee, and the Para-Commandos who wear either the SAS winged dagger (I/Para-Cdo) or a commando dagger (II/Para-Cdo).

 

There are several different sets of non-combat headgear for the TdM. For formal wear there is a night-blue képi with red piping for other ranks. In undress there is a side cap in similar colours if a beret is not worn. The beret for most of the TdM is a similar night-blue in colour, however the RPIMa wear the scarlet beret of the TAP. The Para-Commandos however have maroon (I/Para-Cdo) and green (II/Para-Cdo) berets worn pulled to the right in British style.     

 

The marines have several of the usual uniform peculiarities such as the regimental specific fourragère worn around the right arm of its dress uniform. They wear elaborate golden épaulettes de tradition as well as wide red ceinture around the waist. Officers in armoured cavalry units are allowed to wear gold spurs, a right bestowed on them at the request of the British Queen Victoria following the Crimean War.  

 

The marines wear the standard Tenue de Parade Mle.2289 as its parade dress uniform. There are the usual two main walking out dress orders, one for cold seasons and one for warm similar to those worn by the Légion. However it has been known for TdM units operating in the colonies to adopt local walking out dress as worn by the Coloniale.

INDEX

 

Personalities

 

Général de Division Alexandre Monin

 

Alex Monin is the commander of 9e DIMa currently stationed on Kimanjano. He is a Néo-Provençal from Basse Terre in the centre of that territory. The son of an impoverished family he excelled in school and subsequently joined the TdM as a soldier in the years running up to the Central Asian War. He served initially in II/3e RPIMa before being transferred into the RICM as a battle casualty replacement. His intelligence, leadership and fortitude earned him a Médaille Militaire and a chance at a commission. He subsequently returned to Central Asia as a platoon commander with II/3e RPIMa and ended the war as a company commander with a Croix de Guerre.

 

He would subsequently serve on Général Hébert’s staff of 2e DIMa in Elysia gaining the trust and confidence of his commander to such a degree he temporarily commanded a battalion of 8e RIC following the loss of its commander. He has subsequently commanded I/3e RPIMa, served as a Demi-Brigade commander for the 2e DB and in staff positions before gaining command of 9e DIMa. He led the division in action during the liberation once more under the command of Général Hébert.

 

Monin is a resolutely professional and hard working commander, some would say humourlessly so. Although not exceptional in any regard, he is above average in almost all and has few if any weaknesses. In an army that encourages flamboyant leadership Monin is low key but has a knack for bringing out the best in his soldiers. Monin is married and devoted to his wife; his only son was killed in an accident several years ago.

 

Lieutenant-Colonel Yves Kadjallmi

 

Yves Kadjallmi is the commander of the I Bataillon, Régiment de Marche du Tchad 'Marines' currently serving with the 2e DB in Central Asia. Kadjallami is from a middle-class family in Chad and he volunteered for the TdM in the penultimate year of the Central Asian War and served as a marsoin in the ranks of I/RMT. He ended the war with a recommendation for officer training which he accepted. He has seen much of his service in subsequent years with the army in Central Asia and is regarded as something of an expert in local condition.

 

Kadjallmi has come up through the route of an armoured infantry specialist and has served time with the Armée de Manœuvre’s armoured trials unit. He has recently served on secondment as a battalion commander with the CAR Army’s 100th Tank Brigade as well as on exchange with the Russian Army. Kadjallmi is a well respected officer who combines excellent technical skills with an easy going command style and an ability to pick up languages. He is married with two children and has been marked out for higher command.  

 

Sergeant-Chef Pierre Robert

 

Pierre Robert is a tank and platoon commander in the RICM currently deployed on Kimanjano. Robert is from Normandy and is something of a legend within his regiment and the current highest scoring French hovertank ace still in service. He joined the TdM in early 2290 and opted to follow an armoured career with the ‘1e de France’. In the War of German Reunification he became the highest scoring gunner in one of the few AC-12 equipped regiments with no fewer than 18 AFV kills, including seven LkPz-VIIIs. In the wake of the war he was awarded the Croix de Guerre.

 

At the time of the Kafer War Robert found himself as a both a tank commander and platoon sergeant as the RICM deployed to the French Arm for the Liberation. In the second wave at Kimanjano Robert found himself in 36 hours of combat of exceptional intensity as the Kafers attempted to crush the landings. At the end of this period Robert’s was the only tank left intact in his platoon (the squadron had but three survivors) but Robert had knocked out a further 16 AFVs including three Deathsleds and a Behemoth. For the last feat he was awarded the Legion d’Honneur on the field of battle.

 

The RICM rebuilt for the second series of actions and Robert led the platoon through these series of battles gaining another four kills as he did so. Robert is now a national hero and enjoying his status. His success has come mainly from excellent gunnery and a real flair for the tactical reading of the ground. Privately Robert is regarded as one of those soldiers who is a unmatched asset on the battlefield, but something of a liability in barracks.

INDEX

 

Role Playing

 

Troupes de Marine characters must be from the core and French, or be French and have travelled to the core to sign up, which could be role-played. To join the TdM is an easy task modified by determination, failure means the character must serve in another branch of the French Army

 

Initial Skills: Combat Rifleman - 3, Heavy Weapons - 2, Melee - 2, Hover Vehicle - 1, Stealth - 1, Tactics - 1 and First Aid-1 (Ground Vehicle - 1, Swim - 1 if not chosen as Background Skills)

Primary Skills: Combat Skills, Ground Vehicle, Hover Vehicle, Stealth, General Skills (except Prospecting).
 

Quality

 

The average Coloniale unit has a skill breakdown of 10% Green, 30% Experienced, 40% Veteran and 20% Elite. However many units are more highly trained and experienced and will consequently include greater proportions of Veteran and Elite Personnel.

 

Design Notes

The only canon details on the TdM are contained within the Aurore Sourcebook. It describes the presence of a single battalion of marine paras equipped with combat walkers – styled ‘I Bataillon, 8e Regiment Parachutist de la Marine’ (sic) or I/8e RPM. The battalion is described as an elite; skilled in airborne as well as combat walker operations and used for assaults and special operations.

 

Further details of the marines are given describing them as being recruited from Metropolitan France and being legally able to be deployed outside of this territory at any time. Described as an elite and quick reaction force the marines are stated to be a deliberately small body of not more than 12 battalions. One reason for this is to avoid ‘abuses’ of these deployments.

 

Unfortunately this is somewhat problematical, as has been noted the TdM has often been a very strong body of troops. Indeed even in the late periods of the Cold War in the1980s they deployed no fewer than 12 combat battalions, 5 artillery units not counting units deployed in former French colonies. As 2300AD reintroduced ‘traditional’ multi-battalion (usually 3 although I have not followed this model with the TdM) regiments it should be expected that the TdM would be at least 3 times this size, not taking into consideration the vast population of the French Union/Empire.

 

Given that when 2300AD was written there were five active RPIMa units, one in the SF role, it could be expected that there would be 15 RPIMa units in 2300AD. I have 13, 10 in the intervention role and 3 as special forces. This is close to the figure of 12 battalions as the ‘elite quick reaction force’ given in the Aurore sourcebook, whilst excluding most of the rest of the TdM in more mundane roles which it has historically fulfilled.

 

I have integrated the former Belgian Régiment Para-Commando into the Troupes de Marine. Aurore Sourcebook mentions that there are ex-Belgian units with the Armée Métropolitain, however in my opinion it is more likely that the Para-Commandos would integrate into the TdM. Similarly I have folded some rapid deployment ex-Coloniale formations from Nouvelle Provence into the TdM.

 

For mainstream TdM forces I have three strands. The DIMa units which are entirely TdM mechanised formations are a part of rapid reaction forces on both Earth and Tirane. Individual units integrated into regular Armée de Manœuvre forces. The final units are those assigned to airmobile forces in Africa and French colonies. This mirrors both Cold War and current French usage.

 

I have also maintained the TdM responsibility for garrisoning some of the Terran territories which are held over from France’s 1st and 2nd Empires. These units are a mixture of regular TdM units manned predominantly by veteran soldiers and units raised from the local population. The TdM does not have responsibility for Western and Central African units however which come under the Armée Métropolitaine.   

 

In total the TdM as detailed above has some 46 ‘teeth’ battalions recruited from a population of 645 million ‘Metropolitan’ French citizens. This compares with the 1989 US Marine Corps with 56 from 249 million Americans. I hope this approach maintains the TdM as an elite and relatively small body of troops whilst staying in line at least with the spirit of canon.

 

INDEX 

 

Bibliography

 

Clayton, Anthony – Paths of Glory: The French Army 1914-18 – (London, Cassell, 2003)

Clayton, Anthony – Three Marshals of France: Leadership After Trauma – (London, Brassey’s, 1992)

Haythornthwaite, Philip J – The World War One Sourcebook - (London, Arms and Armour Press, 1992)

Horne, Alistair – A Savage War of Peace: Algeria 1954-1962 - (London, Macmillan, 1977)

Windrow, Martin – The Last Valley: Dien Bien Phu and the French Defeat in Vietnam - (London, Weidenfeld & Nicholson, 2004)

Unofficial Troupes de Marine Website - http://www.troupesdemarine.org/index2.htm

 

INDEX


28 September 2004

 

Copyright D Hebditch, 2004

 

Thanks to Laurent Esmiol for feedback and corrections.