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At its peak during the turn of the twentieth century the British Empire covered one-fifth of the world’s surface and the Royal Family sat as the Head of State for no less than a quarter of the world’s population. Britain may no longer rules the waves like she once did but, she still plays a major role on an international stage.
The UK’s Armed Forces – the Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy – can be found on every continent and in every corner of the globe in both a peacekeeping and combatant capacity, defending Britain’s – and her allies’ – interests and dependencies, invariably under the guise of the so-called ‘coalition forces’ fronted by the US or under the umbrella of the United Nations.
Indeed, British forces have played a significant military role in many parts of the world; from fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan and patrolling the seas off the coast of South America to seizing illegal shipments of drugs and carrying out humanitarian and disaster relief work, security and surveillance operations.
As one of the largest employers in the UK the Armed Forces recruit a significant number of newly qualified graduates and career-changers every year, particularly where there are skills shortages such as engineering, logistics and medical.
There are so many different jobs available that you could quite literally do anything. Careers exist for caterers, electricians, tank operators, submariners, IT and finance personnel, doctors, nurses and even vets – the list goes on.
The Armed Forces is a huge community and everywhere they go they need to take everything with them that will be needed to effectively set-up shop – including the kitchen sink. But regardless of whether you choose to enter the Forces as a cook or soldier, navigator or technician, you will need to learn how to use a gun and be prepared to fight for Queen and country when the call comes.
A career in the Armed Forces could never be accused of being boring. You will get the chance to see the world for what it is, good and bad. You will live and work in countries that will never make it into the Top 100 Places to Visit before I Die list. And you’ll experience cultures that are considerably different to our own.
This is a rewarding career that can see you move quickly through the ranks within a relatively short period of time. All you need to do is figure out what path you want to take and, as the Royal Navy say, if you’re good you’ll get on.
Wondering what to do now? Check out our expert career advice,or find out more about working in the Armed Forces.