Rhodesia - Special Forces in World War 2

Which Special Forces did Rhodesia use during World War 2?

Rhodesia in World War 2

At the time of the World War 2, Rhodesia was a British colony, divided into Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Although relatively small in population and resources, the Rhodesian forces played a significant role in supporting the Allied powers during the war.

Composition of Rhodesian Forces

At the outbreak of World War II in 1939, Southern Rhodesia, the more populous of the two Rhodesian territories, had a small but well-organised military force. The colony’s military consisted mainly of the Rhodesian African Rifles (RAR), the Southern Rhodesian Regiment, and various other units, including the Southern Rhodesian Air Force. Northern Rhodesia, on the other hand, had fewer military resources but still contributed to the war effort through the Northern Rhodesia Regiment (NRR).

The Rhodesian African Rifles (RAR) was composed primarily of black African soldiers under white officers. This unit was initially formed in 1916 and had a history of service in World War I. The Southern Rhodesian Regiment, which had also seen service in World War I, was reactivated at the start of the conflict. Meanwhile, the Southern Rhodesian Air Force, though small, became an essential part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, which aimed to train pilots and aircrew for the Royal Air Force (RAF).

Rhodesians in the Long Range Desert Group

One of the most notable contributions of Rhodesian forces to World War II was their involvement in the Long Range Desert Group (LRDG). The Long Range Desert Group was a reconnaissance and raiding unit that operated in the North African desert, conducting deep-penetration missions behind enemy lines. Formed in 1940, the LRDG became a crucial component of the British Army’s operations in the Western Desert Campaign.

Southern Rhodesians were among the first volunteers for the Long Range Desert Group, bringing with them valuable skills and experience that were well-suited to the harsh desert environment. Many of these men were accustomed to the challenging conditions of the African bush, which made them ideal candidates for the gruelling tasks assigned to the Long Range Desert Group. Their expertise in navigation, survival, and endurance was crucial to the unit’s success.

The Rhodesians in the Long Range Desert Group were involved in a variety of missions, including gathering intelligence, raiding enemy supply lines, and attacking isolated Axis outposts. Operating in small, highly mobile units, they used specially equipped vehicles to traverse vast stretches of the desert, often under extreme conditions. The Long Range Desert Group’s operations were instrumental in disrupting Axis supply chains and communications, contributing significantly to the success of Allied forces in the North African Campaign.

Rhodesians in the Long Range Desert Group developed a reputation for their toughness, resourcefulness, and ability to operate effectively in one of the most hostile environments of the war. Their service in this elite unit not only demonstrated their commitment to the Allied cause but also highlighted the important role that Rhodesian soldiers played in some of the war’s most daring and unconventional operations.

Contributions to the War Effort

Rhodesia’s contributions to the Allied war effort were multifaceted, encompassing both military and civilian participation. One of the most significant contributions was the manpower provided by Rhodesian forces. Approximately 26,000 Southern Rhodesians served in the British Armed Forces during the war, a remarkable number considering the colony’s small population. This figure included both white and black soldiers, with many serving in various theatres of war, including North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

The Rhodesian forces were involved in several key battles and campaigns during the war. The Rhodesian African Rifles, for instance, served with distinction in the East African Campaign, fighting against Italian forces in Ethiopia and Somaliland. Rhodesian troops also participated in the North African Campaign, particularly during the battles of El Alamein, where they played a role in the eventual defeat of the Axis forces in Africa.

In addition to ground forces, Rhodesian pilots and aircrew made significant contributions to the war effort. Many Rhodesians served in the Royal Air Force, where they were involved in various roles, including fighter and bomber operations. The Southern Rhodesian Air Force, though small, was instrumental in training aircrew under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, which provided essential support to the Royal Air Force during the war.

Civilian Contributions

Beyond the battlefield, the civilian population of Rhodesia also played a role in supporting the war effort. Southern Rhodesia, in particular, contributed to the war economy by providing raw materials, including copper, chromium, and tobacco, which were essential for the Allied war machine. The colony’s agricultural sector also supported the war effort by increasing food production to supply both local and overseas troops.

The war also had a significant impact on Rhodesian society, leading to increased industrialisation and infrastructure development. The demand for war-related goods and services spurred economic growth, which laid the foundation for post-war development in the region. However, this period also saw heightened racial tensions, as the war effort brought about changes in labour relations and the distribution of wealth, exacerbating the inequalities between the white minority and the black majority.