The Yeomanry Cavalry, whose first corps were raised in 1794, was formed to be prepared to repel invasion from Revolutionary France. Comprised of landowners and Yeomen farmers, they had a vital role in maintaining the constitutional stability of the nation. They fwere first used on the battlefield in 1900, when numerous Companies of Imperial Yeomanry fought for the integrity of the British Empire. They subsequently served with distinction in both World Wars and more recently in the Gulf.

Present Day
There are now 4 Yeomanry regiments in the Royal Armoured Corps. The roles and equipment are entirely aligned to the Regular Army. These regiments, the Royal Wessex Yeomanry, the Royal Yeomanry, the Royal Mercian Lancastrian Yeomanry and the Queen’s Own Yeomanry make a significant contribution to the capability of the Royal Armoured Corps and to the Joint NBC Regiment. The regiments also operate the same equipment and train to the same standards as the regular Royal Armoured Corps Regiments.

As the deployments in Iraq continue, Yeomen have been undertaking mobilised service again and several hundred Yeomen have served in Iraq, as well as places such as Kosovo and Afghanistan.