The Gurkhas are a unique unit in the Army with a reputation of being amongst the finest and most feared soldiers in the world. The Royal Gurkha Rifles are Infantry are manned by Nepali soldiers and officers; and British officers, it is this blend of cultures that makes the RGR unique. Gurkhas are known for their professionalism, fighting prowess, humour and humility. They currently consist of two battalions, one based in Brunei and one in Shorncliffe, UK. There are two additional companies, F (Falklands) and G (Coriano) with 2 and 4 RANGER Regiment Battalions respectively.
The role of the Infantry is at the core of the Army; from peacekeeping to combat operations, anywhere in the world - our Infanteers lead the way. Infantry soldiers are trained to be ready for any challenge. Ready to operate alongside allies in adverse climates, from desert to jungle. Ready to protect the nation, prevent conflict, fight the nation's enemies and deal with disasters at home or overseas.
Our Skills
All Gurkha soldiers are recruited in Nepal.
British Officers are recruited from across the UK and Commonwealth.
All Officers are expected to speak Nepali and will attend a language course in Nepal.
The Royal Gurkha Rifles are part of the Infantry. The Infantry is at the heart of the Army. It is at the core of the Army’s Ground Close Combat capability. Trained to out-think, outwit, outmanoeuvre, outfight, and outlast any adversary, anywhere. Ready to operate across a very range of challenging climatic and geographical environments, amongst diverse populations, and alongside allies.
Our History
The Royal Gurkha Rifles was formed on 1 July 1994, after the amalgamation of four Gurkha Regiments, 2 GR, 6 GR, 7 GR and 10 GR.
During this time, battalions of the Royal Gurkha Rifles have taken part in operations in Kosovo, Bosnia, East Timor, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Australia, Iraq, Afghanistan and Malawi.
The Royal Gurkha Rifles now consists of two battalions and two RANGER Companies. One Battalion is based in Shorncliffe in Kent, another in Brunei in South East Asia and F and G RANGER Regiment companies are based in Aldershot.
A more detailed history on the Gurkha service to the crown, and of our forebear Regiments can be found on our association website.
Our Locations
There are 2 battalions and two additional companies that form The Royal Gurkha Rifles:
- The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles located in Shorncliffe, Kent
- The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles located in Brunei, South East Asia
- F (Falklands) Company - part of 2nd Battalion, The RANGER Regiment
- G (Coriano) Company - part of the 4th Battalion, The RANGER Regiment
Jungle Battalion
Our equipment
SA80 Individual Weapon
L115A3 Long Range 'Sniper' Rifle
L129A1 Sharpshooter Rifle
81mm Mortar
General Purpose Machine Gun
Combat Shotgun
Heavy Machine Gun
Light Machine Gun
Find out more about the Gurkhas
You can find out lots more about the Brigade of Gurkhas on our Brigade website. Including a detailed history, all our news and how to reach out to our veteran community.
Officer Recruitment
British Officers are recruited into The Royal Gurkha Rifles from across the UK and Commonwealth. All officers are expected to speak Nepali and will attend the 3-month language course in Nepal after selection. If you wish to become a Royal Gurkha Rifles Officer please contact the Army Careers Adviser (ACA) who covers your school or university.
Alternatively, apply online via the Army Jobs website. Recruiting Group will then confirm your qualifications and put you in touch with the relevant ACA. Furthermore, anyone who wishes to know more about joining The Royal Gurkha Rifles as an officer should contact the Regimental Secretary, Major (Retired) Bruce McKay.