NATO, the UN and The War on Terror

Image: Land Rover ready for a patrol in Afghanistan

The Guards have played their part in many NATO and UN led operations. In Bosnia and Herzegovina 1995-2004; 1^st Gulf War 2^nd August 1990-28^th February 28-2-1991; 2^nd Gulf War 20^th March 2003-18^thDecember 2011 and Afghanistan 2001 to 2021. Once combat operations ended they took on the role of training the Iraqi and Afghan forces.

Another role they play is in training Commonwealth and other nation’s armies in modern techniques and weaponry. They also train alongside NATO and UN troops in places like Poland, Kenya, the Baltic countries, USA, Canada. Their prowess as first and foremost fighting men is renowned around the world. 

Operation CORDED is a series of deployments to train African wildlife rangers in military anti poaching techniques.

In 2020 the Army launched Operation Rescript to support the Coronavirus Pandemic response. Guardsmen were involved in coronavirus testing, built a temporary hospital ward on the Isle if Wight and provided logistic support to the NHS.

Operation Interflex is the training assistance programme for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

In 2022 the Regiments played a key part in Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and later in the year in The Queen’s funeral. In 2023 They were centre stage at the Coronation of King Charles III and his First trooping The Colour as King.