Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers

The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) is a vital component of the British Army, responsible for maintaining, repairing, and recovering the army’s diverse range of equipment. The corps ensures that all mechanical and electrical systems function optimally, playing a crucial role in the operational readiness and effectiveness of the British Army.

Historical Background

REME was established on October 1, 1942, during World War II. The need for a specialized corps to handle the increasingly complex mechanical and electrical equipment used by the British Army became evident as technology advanced. Before REME’s formation, maintenance responsibilities were spread across various corps, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in repair and recovery operations.

The establishment of REME centralized these responsibilities, creating a dedicated corps with specialized skills and training. This reorganization improved the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance operations, significantly enhancing the British Army’s operational capabilities during the war.

Structure and Organization

REME is structured to provide comprehensive maintenance and repair support across the British Army. The corps is divided into several battalions, each attached to specific divisions or brigades. These battalions are further organized into companies and platoons, ensuring that REME personnel are embedded at all levels of the army’s operational structure.

Key elements of REME include:

  1. Battalions: REME battalions are typically attached to major formations like divisions or brigades, providing direct support to these units. Each battalion is responsible for a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, ensuring the operational readiness of the equipment used by their assigned formation.
  2. Field Companies: These units operate at the front lines, providing immediate repair and recovery services. Field companies are crucial during active operations, where quick and effective maintenance can make the difference between mission success and failure.
  3. Workshops: REME workshops are more permanent facilities where in-depth repairs and overhauls are conducted. These workshops are equipped with advanced tools and machinery, allowing for the repair of complex equipment that cannot be fixed in the field.

Training and Recruitment

REME personnel undergo rigorous training to equip them with the skills needed to maintain and repair the army’s diverse range of equipment. This training includes:

  1. Basic Training: All recruits first complete basic military training, where they learn essential soldiering skills and physical fitness.
  2. Phase 2 Training: After basic training, REME recruits undergo Phase 2 training at the Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) at MoD Lyneham. Here, they receive specialized training in mechanical and electrical engineering, tailored to the specific equipment they will maintain.
  3. Continuous Professional Development: REME personnel are encouraged to pursue further education and qualifications throughout their careers. This can include advanced engineering courses, leadership training, and specialized courses on new technologies and equipment.

Operational Role

The primary role of REME is to ensure that the British Army’s equipment is always operationally ready. This involves a wide range of tasks, including:

  1. Maintenance: Regular servicing and preventative maintenance of vehicles, weapons, and other equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimal performance.
  2. Repairs: Diagnosing and fixing faults in mechanical and electrical systems. This can range from simple repairs to complex overhauls.
  3. Recovery: Recovering damaged or broken-down vehicles and equipment from the battlefield or training areas. REME recovery teams are equipped with specialized vehicles and tools to handle even the most challenging recovery operations.
  4. Modification and Upgrades: Implementing modifications and upgrades to equipment to improve performance or adapt to new operational requirements.

Notable Contributions

REME has played a critical role in numerous military operations since its formation. Some notable contributions include:

  1. World War II: REME’s formation during World War II marked a significant improvement in the British Army’s ability to maintain and repair its equipment. REME units were crucial in ensuring the operational readiness of vehicles, weapons, and other equipment throughout the war.
  2. Falklands War (1982): REME personnel provided essential maintenance and repair services during the conflict, often working under challenging conditions to keep equipment operational.
  3. Gulf War (1990-1991): REME’s role in Operation Granby (the British contribution to the Gulf War) involved extensive maintenance and repair operations, ensuring the readiness of British forces during the conflict.
  4. Afghanistan and Iraq: REME has been heavily involved in operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing vital support to British forces through maintenance, repair, and recovery operations.

Traditions and Ethos

REME’s motto, “Arte et Marte” (By Skill and By Fighting), reflects the dual nature of their role. While their primary mission is to maintain and repair equipment, REME personnel are also trained soldiers, capable of defending themselves and their units if necessary.

The corps’ badge features a horse rearing up, symbolizing power and mobility, and an eight-pointed star, representing the diverse skills and trades within REME. The badge’s design reflects the corps’ commitment to excellence in both technical skill and military prowess.

Conclusion

The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers is a cornerstone of the British Army’s operational effectiveness. Through their expertise in maintaining, repairing, and recovering equipment, REME ensures that the army’s technological assets are always ready for action. Their contributions, from World War II to modern conflicts, highlight the indispensable role they play in the British military. As technology continues to evolve, REME’s adaptability and commitment to excellence will remain crucial in supporting the British Army’s missions worldwide.