Q&A · 8:56:44-8:57:50

How the Royal Navy's interwar reserves were organized

Training ships, shore facilities, and small warships supported Britain's distinct interwar reserve organizations.

Question

How were Royal Navy reserves organized for recruitment and training in the 1920s and 1930s?

Short answer

They used ships and facilities around the country, with reservists training in vessels such as sloops and minelayers within the RNR and RNVR.

Notes

The interwar reserve system used training ships and shore facilities around Britain. Reservists served and trained in small warships, including sloops and minelayers. The Royal Naval Reserve and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve were distinct organizations. The volunteer reserve's officers are described as including wealthy or well-connected enthusiasts, giving the organization political connections alongside its naval role.