List of wars involving the United Kingdom


This is a list of wars and humanitarian conflicts involving the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and its predecessor states. Notable militarised interstate disputes are included. For a list of wars that have been fought on the United Kingdom mainland, see the list of wars in Great Britain.
Historically, the United Kingdom relied most heavily on the Royal Navy and maintained relatively small land forces. Most of the episodes listed here deal with insurgencies and revolts in the various colonies of the British Empire.
During its history, the United Kingdom's forces have invaded, had some control over or fought conflicts in 171 of the world's 193 countries that are currently UN member states, or nine out of ten of all countries.

England, Scotland and Wales to 1707

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (1801–1922)

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (1922–present)

Historiography