The Royal Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force is the armed force of Antigua and Barbuda. The RABDF consists of four major units:

• 1st Battalion, Antigua and Barbuda Regiment - this is the infantry unit and fighting arm of the defence force.
• Service and Support Unit - established in 1997, this provides administrative, logistic and engineer support to the rest of the defence force.
• Coast Guard - this is the maritime element of the defence force, and is divided into four units:
  • Commanding Officer's office
  • Engineer Unit
  • Administration Unit
  • Flotilla - the flotilla is the operational part of the Coast Guard, and consists of four vessels.
• Antigua and Barbuda Cadet Corps

The RABDF has responsibility for several different roles: Internal security, prevention of drug smuggling, the protection and support of fishing rights, prevention of marine pollution, search and rescue, ceremonial duties, assistance to government programs, provision of relief during natural disasters, assistance in the maintenance of essential services and support of the police in maintaining law and order.

The RABDF is one of the world's smallest militaries, consisting of 185 people. It is thus much better equipped for fulfilling its civil roles as opposed to providing a deterrance against would-be aggressors or in defending the nation during a war.

Alliances

• - The Mercian Regiment

See also

• Monarchy in Antigua and Barbuda

External links

• Article on the ABDF by Dr Dion Phillips