Structure of the British Army

The structure of the British Army is complex, due to the

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different origins of its various constituent parts.

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In terms of the nature of its servicemen, it is divided into the Regular Army (full-time professional soldiers) and the Territorial Army (part-time paid soldiers). In terms of its military structure it is divided into corps (administrative groupings by common function), and divisions and brigades (large formations, somewhat fluid in nature).

Related Topics:
Territorial Army - Corps - Divisions - Brigade - Formation

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The regiment is in some respects the most important unit of the British

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Army. It is the largest "permanent" tactical unit in most corps, although it is only an administrative and ceremonial grouping of battalions in the infantry. Typically, a regiment or battalion consists of around 700 soldiers and is commanded by a Lieutenant-Colonel. Many infantry regiments today consist of only one regular battalion, although many also contain another Territorial Army battalion.

Related Topics:
Battalion - Infantry - Lieutenant-Colonel

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A typical battalion or regiment follows a structure similar to the

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following:

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• Company (or Squadron or Battery) of about 100 soldiers, commanded by a Major.
• Platoon (or Troop) of about 30 soldiers, commanded by a Lieutenant or Second Lieutenant
• Section of about 8 soldiers, commanded by a Corporal

Sections can be subdivided into two fire teams for tactical purposes.

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Although the battalion (or regiment in the case of armour or artillery) is the main tactical unit, in the modern army the majority of operational forces operate as battlegroups. This is where a formation, formed around the core of one unit (usually either an armoured regiment or infantry battalion) operates in conjunction with a mix of other units.

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Structure of the British Army: Districts, Divisions and Brigades ►