Original and Current Rationale

The Original Rationale for the NAA

In the late 1850s, the invasion of Great Britain by France was a realistic threat.  As one of many responses to this threat authority was given in 1859 to Lords Lieutenants to form Artillery Volunteer Corps (as well as Corps of Rifles).  The National Rifle Association (NRA) was set up in 1859 to develop and improve the small arms shooting skills and standards of the Corps of Rifles and replicating the success of this organisation, the NAA was formed in 1863 to advance and promote the practice and science of Artillery within the Artillery Volunteer Corps.  Both organisations used competitive spirit as a key motivator in meeting their objectives backed up by the presentation of high profiles trophies and cups for competition winners.

161 years since its formation (and 159 years since the first competitions were held at Shoeburyness in 1865) the NAA still embraces the same basic objectives as those adopted in 1863 but clearly honed and aligned to the current needs of the Chain of Command, our Artillery Reserve Regiments and individual Reservists and the Gunner Family.

Our current purpose

It is the long-held belief of the Trustees that Reservists welcome the recognition that the element of competition brings, thereby imitating their forebears over the last 161 years.

The current aims and roles of the NAA are, therefore, to:

  • Advance and promote the practice and science of artillery within the current Reserve Regiments of the Royal Regiment of Artillery through the challenge of competition;
  • Support, recognise and promote the high levels of individual skills, commitment, duty and enthusiasm that Artillery Reservists contribute to the Royal Regiment of Artillery , the Army and the UK as whole; and
  • Provide, as a member organisation, a central focal point and representative body for all serving and retired Artillery Reservists.
  • Promote and share the NAA’s unique history and ethos, not only within the Regimental Family (Regular and Reserve), but within our wider military and civilian communities.

NAA StakeholdersCrest

The future role of the NAA is totally dependent on its partnership with, and support of all key stakeholders but especially the following:

  • The Master Gunner (the NAA President) and the Royal Regiment of Artillery as a whole:
  • The Operational Commanders of the Royal Artillery Reserve Regiments and Reservists;
  • The Royal Artillery Regiments themselves and their Commanding Officers and all Ranks; and
  • The NAA Membership – comprising the past and currently serving Royal Artillery Volunteers and Reservists.

Harnessing the goodwill and commitment of all stakeholders is essential if the NAA is to continue to deliver upon its objectives for the benefit of all.