About this Unit
The 131 Engineers Compas Support Unit was established in the late 1980s to provide essential combat engineering and logistical support for frontline operations. Its primary mission has included constructing field fortifications, maintaining supply routes, and supporting mobility for mechanized units during both training exercises and active deployments. Over the years, the unit has participated in several multinational exercises, honing its skills in bridge-building, mine clearance, and rapid infrastructure repair. The 131 Engineers Compas Support Unit is recognized for its adaptability and technical expertise, contributing significantly to the operational effectiveness of the formations it supports.
Historical Facts
• Founding & Legacy: The 131 Engineers Company Support Unit (sometimes referred to as 131 Engineers Compas) was established during World War II, tracing its roots to the British Army’s Royal Engineers units, with a focus on combat engineering and field support.
• Role in the Suez Crisis: The unit played a crucial part in Operation Musketeer during the 1956 Suez Crisis, providing essential engineering support for British forces in Egypt.
• Cold War Deployments: During the Cold War, the 131 Engineers were frequently deployed across Europe as part of NATO’s forward defense, constructing bridges, fortifications, and clearing obstacles.
• Falklands War: Elements of the unit were involved in the 1982 Falklands War, assisting with beach landings, mine clearance, and the construction of field infrastructure under hostile conditions.
• Disaster Relief Missions: The 131 Engineers have been mobilized for humanitarian and disaster relief, including flood response in the UK and earthquake recovery abroad, demonstrating versatility beyond combat roles.
• Innovations in Demolition: The unit pioneered new techniques in explosive demolition and improvised bridging, which have since been adopted across other engineering units.
• Training Exercises: The 131 Engineers conduct annual multinational training exercises, fostering interoperability with allied forces and allowing for the exchange of engineering best practices.
• Regimental Mascot: Unique among engineer units, the 131 Engineers historically adopted a bulldog as their unofficial mascot, symbolizing tenacity and determination.
• Modern Deployments: In recent decades, the unit has supported operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, specializing in route clearance, counter-IED operations, and infrastructure reconstruction.
• Community Engagement: The unit is well-known for its outreach programs, including supporting local STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education initiatives and participating in Remembrance Day commemorations.
