THE military have insisted Dartmoor remains crucial as a training area, as Royal Marines this week began their latest manoeuvres there. Members of 3 Commando Brigade are undertaking skills package training on the moor to prepare them for operations anywhere in the world. The training, involving protection, anti-ambush drills and defence, is designed to hone infantry skills should they be needed at short notice. The brigade forms part of the UK?s quick reaction force which means commando elements are always on short notice to move, should they be required. The MoD intends to renegotiate its licences with the Duchy of Cornwall and other landowners in order to continue training on Dartmoor beyond 2012. Lt Col Tony Clark, commandant of the Dartmoor Training Area, said: ?An independent study has concluded that military training capability for light forces, notably the Royal Marines, would be at risk if training does not continue on Dartmoor. ?The MoD has developed a good reputation for the protection of the environment and its support for local communities.? He said the Dartmoor Training Area management system had commissioned studies into archaeological features by English Heritage, birds by the RSPB, tourism and socio-economic impact by the tourism association and a vegetation survey. The renegotiation process would ?mirror the planning process? and would involve a ?transparent and detailed level of consultation and debate?, he said. An action group of military veterans has said it is prepared to take up positions on live firing ranges on northern Dartmoor to disrupt military exercise which they say are damaging the moor. Military Veterans Against Dartmoor Abuse (MVADA) say they are made up of experienced former members of the Armed Forces who use the National Park, as walkers, climbers and letterboxers, and believe the military and the public should not mix. Lt Col Clark said he would be happy to meet any members of the group to discuss their concerns, but so far they were remaining anonymous. Lt Col Clark said at the time of going to press, he was not aware of any live firing exercises being disrupted by protesters.