Maritime Reserves
The Royal Naval Reserve (RNR) is a key component of the UK’s maritime defence, with around 3,250 trained personnel who support Royal Navy operations during periods of heightened activity, crisis, or conflict.
In the South West, RNR units such as HMS Vivid in Plymouth and HMS Flying Fox in Bristol play a crucial role in delivering trained reservists who contribute to both national and international missions. In recent years, South West reservists have been increasingly active in frontline operations, often working alongside Regular forces and coalition partners, with many receiving commendations for overseas deployments. While about a quarter of RNR personnel previously served in the Royal Navy, the majority are dedicated civilian volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including a number of qualified Merchant Navy officers, doctors, and nurses.
The Royal Marines Reserve (RMR) provides the Royal Navy with a pool of Commando-trained Reservists who have successfully completed the same demanding tests, both mental and physical, as their Regular counterparts to earn the Green Beret.
In the South West, RMR Bristol plays a key role in recruiting and training volunteers from across the region. These individuals come from a wide range of civilian professions, as well as from former Regular service or transfers from the Army Reserve. Regardless of background, all RMR recruits undertake the same challenging Commando course as full-time Royal Marines.
Today, around 600 RMR personnel nationwide serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers. Their elite training enables them to integrate seamlessly with Regular units, with roughly 10% of the RMR currently deployed on long-term attachments alongside full-time Royal Marines.
Reservists based in the South West continue to sharpen their operational skills through regular live firing, tactical field exercises, and specialist training, both in the UK and overseas. Weeknight training also includes military fitness, unarmed combat, and adventure training, helping maintain the high standards expected of a Royal Marine Commando.