Reserve Forces

There are around 35,000 Volunteer Reservists in the UK. Coming from all backgrounds, regions and jobs, these are men and women who use their spare time to train and serve alongside the Regular Forces. The Reserve Forces consists of the Royal Naval Reserve, the Royal Marines Reserve, the Army Reserve and the Royal Air Force Reserve.

What they do

Reservists are an integral part of of the Armed Forces working side-by-side with their Regular colleagues at home and overseas. Reservists receive the same world-class training as the Regulars and develop the same skills, many of which are used to great effectiveness in their civilian roles.

Why they’re so important

Reservists are a significant and essential part of our defence strategy. They are called upon as individuals for their specific skills or as ready-formed units to serve alongside the Regular Forces whenever required.