Renamed "Troupes d'Outre-Mer" then "Troupes de Marine" during the dismantling of the French Union (1958), their origin can actually be found in the "Compagnies Ordinaires de la Mer" () ("Ordinary Sea Companies"), created in 1622 by Cardinal Richelieu. These companies were used to embark on royal naval ships to serve the naval artillery and participate in the boarding of enemy ships. These companies were also in charge of guarding the various sea ports. Despite the fact that the artillery of the marines was limited in numbers compared to those of the infantry marines (fusiliers and grenadiers), the ship's marine artillerymen were the determining factor for the "Troupes de la marine", being in charge of displacing and mounting the naval guns under the orders of the respective marine artillery officer in charge. In the 18th century, they constituted the "Compagnies Franches de la Marine" who essentially spread to "Nouvelle France" (particularity: these marines were recruited in Europe, with marine officers recruited then on the spot due to an excellent knowledge of the local environment).