Military Affiliations of the Company

An integral part of supply of arms to the front line for nearly 400 years.

Liverymen of the Gunmakers’ Company have been involved in the manufacture of arms for the Crown for almost four centuries. The Company’s Proof House has been similarly testing those guns to ensure the safety of our sailors, soldiers and air specialists.


Having been an integral part of the supply of weaponry to the front line, it is no surprise that we continue to value close links with the Armed Forces.


As well as being fully subscribed to the commitments of the Armed Forces Covenant, the Company enjoys formal affiliations with the following units:




The Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering


Based at MOD Lyneham, the School provides technical training for the Forces’ electronic and mechanical engineers. Of particular interest to the Company is their Armourers’ programme developing skills for the maintenance, repair and modification of weapons systems across Defence.

Annually, the Company provides a prize for the most deserving student on the Class One Armourers’ course.



The Maritime Battle Staff


The Royal Navy’s Maritime Battle Staff is based in Portsmouth but with high readiness to deploy with the Fleet anywhere in the world. The staff provide the core tactical maritime expertise to plan, coordinate, and execute operations across a wide variety of situations, from deep-sea warfare to humanitarian aid. 

Annually, the Company provides a prize for the member of staff considered most deserving by the Commander of the UK Strike Force.



The Light Dragoons


The Light Dragoons is a light cavalry regiment in the Army and is based in Catterick. Specialising in reconnaissance, they have deployed on operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia and, most recently, in Mali and Poland.   Their role is to prepare the way for the rest of the force, carrying out many different roles, from scouting for information to engaging enemy targets.


The Company have made donations to the Regiment’s charity.



Warrior Companies


The term "Warrior Companies" in the context of the City of London typically refers to the livery companies that have historical ties to military or martial professions. These companies, often called "mysteries," were formed to protect and promote the interests of their respective trades and professions, many of which were directly related to warfare or defence.


The Warrior Company’s:


  • Cutlers
  • Armourers 
  • Bowyers
  • Fletchers
  • Blacksmiths 
  • Gunmakers


These companies not only represent historical trades but also play a role in modern ceremonial functions, charitable activities, and community engagement, preserving their legacies while adapting to contemporary society. The Warrior Companies maintain their traditions through events, awards, conservation and contributions to education related to their crafts and industries.



Cadet Units


The future success of the Armed Forces depends on nurturing talent amongst the youth of today. The Company is hugely impressed by the amazing work of local London cadet units, developing skilled, confident and resilient young people. The Company enjoys mutual affiliations with Sea, Army and Air cadets:


  • West Ham Sea Cadets
  • 2 Company (London Boroughs, of Hackney, Islington, Tower Hamlets and City of London) Army Cadets
  • 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC)


The Company supports these units with grants to help develop cadet skills, particularly in skill-at-arms.