British Army

British Army
Emblem of the British Army
Founded	1660
Country	United Kingdom
Allegiance	Elizabeth II
Branch	British Armed Forces
Type	Army
Role	Land warfare
Size	82,230 regulars (2021)
Headquarters	Army Headquarters, Andover

The British Army is the principal land warfare force of the United Kingdom. It is part of the British Armed Forces along with the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. The British Army was formed in 1660, following the Restoration of King Charles II to the throne. It has been involved in numerous conflicts and wars throughout its history, including the Napoleonic Wars, the Crimean War, both World Wars, and more recently, the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War.

History

The British Army was officially established with the Restoration of King Charles II in 1660. Prior to this, England relied on feudal levies and militias for defense. The formation of a standing army marked a significant shift in military organization and capability.

18th and 19th Centuries

During the 18th century, the British Army played a crucial role in the War of the Spanish Succession, the Seven Years' War, and the American Revolutionary War. The 19th century saw the British Army engaged in the Napoleonic Wars, the Crimean War, and various colonial conflicts as the British Empire expanded.

20th Century

In the 20th century, the British Army was heavily involved in both World War I and World War II. During World War I, the British Army fought on the Western Front and in other theaters of war. In World War II, it participated in major campaigns in Europe, North Africa, and Asia.

Post-World War II

After World War II, the British Army was involved in various conflicts, including the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency, and the Falklands War. More recently, it has been deployed in peacekeeping missions and conflicts such as the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War.

Structure

The British Army is structured into various regiments and corps, each with its own history and traditions. The main components include the Infantry, the Royal Armoured Corps, the Royal Artillery, the Royal Engineers, and the Army Air Corps.

Training

Training for the British Army is conducted at several establishments, including the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst for officer training and the Army Foundation College for initial soldier training.

Equipment

The British Army is equipped with a range of modern weaponry and vehicles, including the Challenger 2 main battle tank, the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle, and the Apache attack helicopter.

Operations

The British Army is deployed in various operations around the world, including peacekeeping missions, humanitarian aid efforts, and combat operations. It works closely with allied forces, particularly those of NATO.

See also

• British Armed Forces
• Royal Navy
• Royal Air Force
• History of the British Army
• List of British Army regiments and corps