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Royal Marines afloat

By the beginning of the 20th century the RMA and RMLI were beginning a period of re-establishment within the fleet. Changes in the technology of warfare threatened the traditional roles of the Royal Marines.

By 1880s the warship had altered beyond comparison with alterations in design, steam ousting sail, enormous guns in barbettes and turrets replacing the smaller cannons.

The range of battle had increased and, coupled the advent of machine and the small calibre quick firing gun in the late 1870s, the Royal Navy did not require the ‘Royals’ to defend the ships in the same way. This led to a reduction in numbers.

Additionally, in days of the old sailing ship the Navy would charge Royal Marines with the command of boats. When the Navy introduced mechanical propulsion into small craft, the involvement of the Marines reduced again.

Their activities became increasingly restricted and limited with many Royal Marine Officers on board ships having no explicitly defined duties. At the same time, however, they were reproached by Captains and the Admiralty alike for not being useful enough.

2 more years to roll. Draft RMA and RMB for HMS Bacchante 1910. (RMM)

Article highlights

• Royal Marines afloat

• The move into gunnery

• Royal Marine Artillery

• Royal Marine Light Infantry

   

Follow the links to find out more about -

• Sea service

• Gunnery and repository

• The Boer War

• The Boxer Rebellion

• Flying Marines