Ground Forces Ranks


Private - (Pte.)




Information

On completion of Phase 1 Training, all new soldiers start as Privates although the title may be Trooper, Gunner, Signaller, Sapper, Guardsman Rifleman or even Kingsman depending on Corps/Regiment.


Lance Corporal - (LCpl.)




Information

Promotion to Lance Corporal may follow after Phase 2 Training or after a signifcant amount of time as a private. Lance Corporals are required to supervise a small team of up to four soldiers called a section. They also have opportunities to specialise and undertake specialist military training.


Corporal - (Cpl.)




Information

After some time, and depending on ability to lead, promotion to Corporal typically follows. In this rank additional trade and instructor qualifications can be gained. Corporals are given command of more soldiers and equipment such as tanks and guns.


Sergeant - (Sgt.)




Information

Sergeant is a senior role of responsibility, promotion to which typically takes place after some time depending on ability. Sergeants typically are second in command of a troop or platoon of up to 35 soldiers, with the important responsibility for advising and assisting junior officers.


Colour Sergeant - (CSgt.)




Information

After a few months as a Sergeant promotion to Colour Sergeant may follow. This is a senior role combining man and resource management of around 120 soldiers, or even command of a troop or platoon.


Warrant Officer Class 2/Company Sergeant Major - (CSM.)




Information

This is a senior management role focussing on the training, welfare and discipline of a company, squadron or battery of up to 120 soldiers. WO2s act as senior adviser to the Major in command of the sub-unit and may also be selected for a commission as an Officer.


Warrant Officer Class 1/Regimental Sergeant Major - (RSM.)




Information

The most senior soldier rank in the British Army, typically reached after many years of outstanding service. WO1s are the senior advisors of their unit's Commanding Officer, with leadership, discipline and welfare responsibilities of up to 650 officers and soldiers and equipment.


Officer Cadet - (OCdt.)




Information

This is the rank held during initial officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.


2nd Lieutenant - (2Lt.)




Information

The first rank held on commissioning. It is normally held for up to 60 days within the unit, during which time they complete special to arms training relevant to their Corps. Afterwards they are responsible for leading up to 30 soldiers in a platoon or troop, both in training and on operations.


Lieutenant - (Lt.)




Information

Lieutenant is a rank typically held for a good amount. They normally command of a platoon or troop of around 30 soldiers, but with experience comes increased responsibilities. They also have the opportunity to gain specialised skills outside their unit.


Captain - (Capt.)




Information

Captains are normally made second-in-command of a sub-unit of up to 120 soldiers. They are key players in the planning and decision-making process, with tactical responsibility for operations on the ground as well as equipment maintenance, logistic support and manpower.


Major - (Maj.)




Information

Promotion to Major follows when the position is available. Typically a Major will be given command of a sub-unit of up to 120 officers and soldiers with responsibility for their training, welfare and administration both in camp and on operations, as well as the management of their equipment.


Credit to the British Army for the images and descriptions.

Aviation Ranks


Pilot Officer - (Plt Off.)




Information

N/A


Flying Officer - (Fg Off.)




Information

N/A


Flight Lieutenant - (Flt Lt.)




Information

N/A


Squadron Leader - (Sqn Ldr.)




Information

N/A


Wing Commander - (Wg Cmdr.)




Information

N/A


Credit to the Royal Air Force for the images.


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