Our squadron operates from two primary locations:
- Regent's Park Barracks
- MOD Main Building
With a team of 80 personnel, comprised of approximately equal numbers of military personnel and civil servants, our squadron benefits from the expertise of a civilian contingent, largely professional drivers who provide invaluable capability and continuity. Stationed in the heart of Central London, junior soldiers receive additional allowances, making us the only unit in the Corps with this unique opportunity.
We deliver a wide range of transport support services, including :
- Assisting London district units with routine movements
- Supporting public duties and state ceremonial events
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Operating and maintaining The King's Baggage Wagons
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Providing transport services for MOD main building principals, including ministers and the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS)
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Conducting VIP and VVIP driving tasks for ministerial and defence personnel
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Supplying transport expertise to London district, ensuring smooth operations for state events in the capital
Our squadron operates a diverse fleet of vehicles to effectively carry out our duties, including:
- The King's Baggage Wagons
- Coaches
- Minibuses
- Heavy Goods Vehicles
- Light Goods Vehicles
- A variety of high-spec staff cars
Maintaining this extensive fleet allows 20 Transport Squadron to support units without their own Motor Transport Department.
We have soldiers in every rank, most commonly from the Driver trade. Many of our civil servants have extensive experience, with some having dedicated over 20 years to the unit.
The squadron’s unique responsibilities and high-profile clients offer our team members exceptional experiences that demand the highest standards of professionalism. These roles enable personnel to refine their skills daily while also earning additional qualifications.
Lance Corporal Wood - Personal Training Instructor & VVIP Driver
During my time with 20 Transport Squadron, I’ve supported key national events, including Op Forth Bridge, The Platinum Jubilee, Op London Bridge, and Op Golden Orb. I’ve also provided VIP driving support for senior MOD personnel, including the Vice Chief of Defence Staff. In January 2024, I was appointed as the Operations Junior Non-Commissioned Officer. I was responsible for planning and coordinating London District tasks, liaising with multiple units across the London District and ensuring our soldiers are trained to do their jobs. I have also participated in numerous sporting events, including rowing, badminton and volleyball, as part of the annual General Officers Commanding’s Cup. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to take part in adventurous training (AT) in Cyprus and have attended two battlefield studies in Belgium.
Sporting Opportunities
20 Transport Squadron offers extensive opportunities for personnel to participate in individual and team sports, as well as AT. Annual overseas AT expeditions are organised, often more than once a year, with maximum participation encouraged. Each year, the squadron fields a team for the RLC Ski Championships, giving both novice and experienced skiers a unique chance to learn competitive racing skills. In the past 12 months, several personnel have earned AT qualifications in activities such as paragliding, parachuting, and mountain biking. The size of 20 Transport Squadron enables individuals to explore a wide range of sports. Recently, the unit has achieved success in hockey, table tennis, volleyball, and cross-country competitions.
Staff Sergeant Karl Byatt - Operations Staff Sergeant
Since arriving to 20 Transport Squadron, I have coordinated and managed transportation for events like the King’s Birthday Parade, Remembrance Sunday, state visits and wider London District operations. I have had unique opportunities such as taking part in Ex London Response which improved my knowledge towards Defence’s contribution to resilience and security, allowing me to gain qualifications in Crisis Management. On top of this, I was nominated to be the lead for the Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Hydrogen Car trial on behalf of UK Strategic Command. As an AT instructor, I have also organised AT packages for the squadron and taken part in numerous sporting teams.
