The Army in Scotland
Almost 10,000 regular and reserve troops and Ministry of Defence civil servants work for the British Army in Scotland.
They deliver UK operations, support to our allies around the world, and provide emergency support to the Scottish Government, local authorities, and public bodies.
The British Army in Scotland
Scotland hosts a diverse range of British Army units that play a vital role in our national defence and security.
51st Infantry Brigade and HQ Scotland
Based in Edinburgh’s Redford Cavalry Barracks, HQ 51 Infantry Brigade & HQ Scotland supports all Army personnel (Regular, Reserve, Civil Servants and Cadets) and their families in Scotland. It connects the Army with Scottish communities, the Scottish Government and the Scotland Office.
The Brigade delivers UK operations, can establish itself as Joint Military Command Scotland when needed, and manages ceremonial duties and public engagement across Scotland.
Royal Regiment of Scotland
The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS), Scotland’s senior infantry regiment with headquarters in Edinburgh Castle, includes:
- 2 SCOTS in Penicuik
- 3 SCOTS in Fort George
- 5 SCOTS (Balaklava Company) in Edinburgh
- 6 SCOTS (Reserve) across southern Scotland
- 7 SCOTS (Reserve) covering the Highlands and Islands
Other regiments and facilities
Scotland is also home to the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and 2 Close Support Battalion REME at Leuchars Station, 39 Engineer Regiment at Kinloss, and 3 RIFLES in Edinburgh.
Glasgow hosts the Army Personnel Centre, and Edinburgh has a Personnel Recovery Centre.
Army Reserve units
Reserve forces across Scotland include the Scottish & North Irish Yeomanry, 5 Military Intelligence Battalion and 105 Regiment Royal Artillery (Edinburgh), and c32 Signal Regiment, 215 (Scottish) Multirole Medical Regiment – Glasgow, 71 Engineer Regiment (Leuchars), and 154 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps (Dunfermline). These units maintain a presence throughout Scotland, ensuring the Army is connected to communities nationwide.
More information
Find out more about defence and security in Scotland.