Marine (military)
Troupes de marine or "Marine Troops", are a part of the French Army. Troupes de Marine and the Foreign Legion are the only units of the French army permanently based in Africa, one regiment in Djibouti, one battalion in Senegal, one battalion in Ivory Coast (until 2009, now forming the core of Operation Unicorn), one battalion in Gabon, as well as bases in the French Overseas territories. The Troupes de Marine has infantry (Infanterie de Marine), paratroopers and light cavalry, and artillery (Artillerie de Marine). They provide the ground soldiers for French amphibious task forces and are specially trained for that purpose. The 9th Marine Brigade (9e Brigade Légère Blindée de Marine (9 BLBMa)) works with the 3 Commando Brigade of the Royal Marines, exchanging officers, sharing training and exercises.