The volunteer force that defends a remote island territory

Society · Published 20 October 2026 · Updated 22 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Falkland Islands Defence Force (FIDF) is a unique military entity. The local government manages and finances this body, distinguishing it from the British Armed Forces. It relies entirely on local volunteers who train alongside British regulars to protect the islands from external threats.

The FIDF's origins date back to 1847, when Governor Richard Clement Moody formed a militia consisting of infantry, mounted, and artillery units. To defend against Russian threats, a volunteer group was re-established in 1854 amidst the Crimean War. By 1892, the presence of 200 armed soldiers on a Chilean Civil War steamer prompted the formation of the Falkland Islands Volunteer Corps, which eventually became the FIDF in 1920.

While functioning as a light infantry company, the force had roughly 40 members in 2022, resembling a platoon. While it is composed entirely of local volunteers, it operates on British Army doctrine and training. In an emergency, the force can nearly double in size by calling out 'Secondary Reserve Personnel'—former active members. The force is funded by the local government with an annual budget of £400,000.

The FIDF has a complex relationship with the UK military. While the Governor acts as Commander-in-Chief, they are legally obliged to consult with the Commander of British Forces on FIDF decisions. The force also provides search and rescue, mountain rescue, and sovereignty protection duties. During the 1982 Argentine invasion, the FIDF was mobilized but faced significant challenges, including being forced to withdraw from key points in Stanley and eventually being declared an 'illegal organisation' by Argentine forces.

Today, the force maintains a distinct identity, including its own cap badge and the 'Royal Marine Blue' dress uniforms adopted in 1931. It continues to train weekly, often acting as the 'enemy' in exercises for British soldiers. A major milestone occurred in 2019 when Major Justin McPhee, the first FIDF officer, finished the UK Defence Academy's Intermediate Command & Staff Course.

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