| National Defence Companies | |
|---|---|
| Active | 1 September 1936 |
| Disbanded | 1939 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Role | Defence from invasion |
The National Defence Companies of the Territorial Army were a voluntary military reserve force of the British Army, for the purpose of home defence in the event of war. Enlistment was limited to former members of the British Armed Forces between the ages of 45 and 60. The scheme was established in 1936, during rearmament prior to World War II. On the outbreak of war in September 1939, the National Defence Companies were called up for service and became the basis of the Home Service Battalions.