The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) is a corps of the British Army responsible for maintaining, repairing, and recovering the Army’s equipment and machinery. Since its establishment in 1942, REME has played a pivotal role in ensuring the operational readiness of the British Army through its technical expertise. The corps’ motto, Arte et Marte (By Skill and by Fighting), reflects its dual focus on technical proficiency and soldiering skills.
REME History and Formation
The REME was formed during the Second World War, on October 1, 1942, in response to the increasing complexity of military equipment. Prior to its establishment, maintenance responsibilities were distributed across several corps, including the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and the Royal Engineers. This decentralization led to inefficiencies, particularly as modern warfare introduced more sophisticated vehicles, weapons systems, and other technologies.
The creation of REME centralized maintenance functions under a single organization, ensuring more effective management of technical resources. The new corps took on responsibilities for repairing armaments, vehicles, electronics, and other critical equipment, enabling the Army to operate effectively in diverse theaters of war.
REME Army Structure and Roles
REME personnel are responsible for a range of technical and engineering tasks, including:
- Repair and Maintenance: Ensuring the operational functionality of tanks, helicopters, weaponry, radar systems, and communications equipment.
- Recovery Operations: Retrieving damaged or immobilized vehicles from the battlefield or training environments.
- Modification and Innovation: Adapting equipment to meet operational needs or environmental conditions.
- Inspection and Quality Assurance: Conducting thorough inspections and testing of equipment to guarantee safety and reliability.
Organizational Hierarchy
The REME is structured to integrate seamlessly with combat and support units. Its personnel are embedded within frontline units, logistics units, and training establishments, ensuring technical expertise is available where it is needed most. The corps includes:
- Workshops and Recovery Units: Fixed and mobile workshops capable of deploying alongside combat units.
- Specialized Teams: Units focused on specific domains, such as aviation support, electronic systems, or heavy armor.
REME Battalions & Regimants
REME is structured into several battalions and regiments, each with specific roles and stationed at various locations within the United Kingdom.
| Battalion | Location |
| 1 Close Support Battalion REME | Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire |
| 2 Close Support Battalion REME | Leuchars Station, Fife, Scotland |
| 3 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME | Tidworth Camp, Wiltshire |
| 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME | Jellalabad Barracks, Tidworth Camp, Wiltshire |
| 5 Force Support Battalion REME | Cottesmore, Rutland |
| 6 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME | Tidworth Camp, Wiltshire |
| 7 Air Assault Battalion REME | Wattisham Flying Station, Suffolk |
| 8 Training Battalion REME | MOD Lyneham, Wiltshire |
| 101 Battalion REME | Wrexham, Wales |
| 102 Battalion REME | Newton Aycliffe, County Durham |
Training and Expertise
Recruitment and Training
REME personnel undergo rigorous training to develop technical and engineering skills. New recruits typically begin their careers at the Army Foundation College or other initial training establishments before proceeding to specialized technical training.
The Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME), based at MOD Lyneham in Wiltshire, serves as the primary training center for REME trades. Courses cover various disciplines, including automotive engineering, electronics, welding, and aviation maintenance.
Trades and Specializations
REME encompasses a variety of trades, each focused on a particular aspect of military engineering, including:
- Vehicle Mechanics
- Electronics Technicians
- Aircraft Technicians
- Recovery Mechanics
- Armament Technicians
Modern Role and Contributions
In the 21st century, REME continues to adapt to evolving military needs. Its responsibilities have expanded to include maintaining cutting-edge systems such as drones, digital communication networks, and advanced weaponry. The corps has been instrumental in supporting recent British Army operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other global deployments, ensuring the Army’s technological assets remain operational in harsh and unpredictable conditions.
Innovation and Sustainability
REME also plays a key role in sustainability initiatives, focusing on efficient resource utilization and the recycling of materials. The corps is engaged in leveraging modern technologies, such as predictive maintenance systems and 3D printing, to enhance repair processes and reduce logistics burdens.
Recognition and Traditions
REME is proud of its heritage and traditions. Corps members are distinguished by their cap badge, which features a horse rearing up on a globe, symbolizing mechanical power and global reach. The corps celebrates its foundation day each year, recognizing the contributions of past and present personnel.
Notably, REME has a strong association with excellence in engineering, and its members often pursue civilian qualifications that enhance their military and post-service careers. The corps’ close collaboration with industry ensures that its personnel are trained in line with cutting-edge engineering standards.
