French Army: 2300AD
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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