Marine Fusilier Regiments

The Marine Fusilier Regiments (RFM), also known as Marine Rifle Regiments, are elite marine infantry units of the Algerian Navy, equivalent to the US Marine Corps. Established in 1986 under General Abdelmadjid Chérif, these regiments were created to function as amphibious forces capable of deep operations, similar to the Algerian Army's Parachute Commandos. In 2005, the Marine Commandos Corps was formed with its first class.

There are currently eight identified Marine Rifle Regiments: the 1st "Martyr Housh Mohamed" in Jijel, 3rd in Azzefoun, 4th in El Milia, 5th in Ténès, 7th in Boumerdes, and regiments in Dellys, Mers-El-Kebir, and Collo. These regiments are organized similarly to other Algerian Army units, with a general staff, three combat companies, logistics, anti-tank, recognition/support, and transmission units.

Their primary tasks include amphibious operations, special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism on land and sea, support for special operations, protection of strategic points, combating illicit trafficking, coastal protection, search and rescue, and securing key infrastructure. Training occurs at the EFMP school in Jijel, with additional international training in the U.S., Italy, and Spain.

The regiments are equipped with weapons such as Glock 17 & 18 pistols, AKMS rifles, PKM machine guns, and RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenades. Individual equipment includes Spectra helmets, tactical vests, bullet-proof vests, and communication headsets. Vehicles range from Mercedes-Benz G Class and Toyota Land Cruiser to BTR-80 armored personnel carriers. Support vessels include the Kalaat Beni Abbes and Polnochny-class landing ships, with MI-17 helicopters providing aerial support.