The Army has had a presence in Gibraltar for more than 300 years. The people of Gibraltar took up arms as the Gibraltar Volunteer Corps from 1915-1920 and again as the Gibraltar Defence Force shortly before the outbreak of WW2. This force later became the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, which remains as the only formed Army unit in Gibraltar.
In 1991 the last UK-based infantry battalion left Gibraltar and the role of defending and securing the Rock was taken up by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. In addition to the Regiment, there are Army sub-units in Gibraltar with responsibility for signals and infrastructure, and several Army posts in the tri-service headquarters. Along with the other services, the Army in Gibraltar retains the Rock as a Permanent Joint Operating Base for UK operations in the region.
Strategic importance
Gibraltar is well situated to observe shipping channels through the straits and it could dominate the western entrance to the Mediterranean in time of war.
Its communication systems, runway facilities and harbour make it an important base for NATO.
Upcoming Events
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Trooping the Colour
The official birthday of the Sovereign is marked each year by a military parade and march past, known as Trooping the Colour or The King’s Birthday Parade. The event takes place each June on Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall in front of crowds of onlookers as well as being enjoyed by millions worldwide.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2024
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual series of military tattoos performed by British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands, and artistic performance teams on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in the capital of Scotland. The event is held each August as one of the Edinburgh Festivals.