UK to Revive Home Guard: Citizen Militia to Protect Vital Infrastructure

A World War II-era civilian militia is reportedly set to be revived to enhance the protection of key British infrastructure, including power plants and airports, against threats from hostile states and terrorists.

According to The Sunday Times, a government review recommends establishing a home guard comprising several thousand volunteers who would be tasked with safeguarding critical assets, including telecommunications sites vital to Britain’s internet access.

The volunteers would be recruited from the general public and organized into local units across the country, operating independently from existing organizations like the army reserves but with a similar structure.

The review highlights that the UK is currently underprepared to handle modern threats.

Additionally, it suggests that the government should invest in defensive missile shields and implement comprehensive measures to tackle recruitment and retention challenges in the navy, army, and RAF.