Its main tasks are the defence of Barbados from external threats, internal security and assisting the local police in maintaining law and order.

The Barbados Regiment[1] was founded in 1902 as the Barbados Volunteer Force (BVF), a volunteer unit raised to provide for the local defense of the island following the withdrawal of the British garrison.

Although the regiment's primary role is to defend Barbados, it also provides the country's commitment to UN peacekeeping forces, predominantly in the Caribbean region.

Mary, Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood, presented the regiment with its first stand of Colours on 23 February 1953.

It was also trooped on 21 November 1987 to mark the 21st anniversary of Barbadian Independence and on 4 June 2012 during the parade in honor of the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II.