From what I have managed to ascertain, the Rhodesia Defence Force (RDF) was formed as an "umbrella" formation, existing alonside the Southern Rhodesia Volunteers (SRV) and responsible for the defence of Rhodesia.
It was formed c.1914 and consisted of a Training unit based in Salisbury with detachments in Bulawayo, Umtali and Gwelo. It was responsible for training and supplying soldiers for the Rhodesia Regiment, Murrays Column and the Rhodesia Native Regiment.
In 1920 the Rhodesian Forces was reorganised and the RDF and SRV were replaced with a new force called the Southern Rhodesia Defence Force (SRDF)
The SRDF system failed and was disbanded in 1927 with the creation of Rhodesian Permanent Force and the Territorial Force. On 1st April 1927, the old SRV became part of the Territorial Force.
Insignia:
RDF
- Cap/Helmet badge consiting of the Coat-of-arms of the BSAP except the motto Rhodesia Defence Force replaced the BSAC motto Justice, Commerce, Freedom.
- Facing collar badges of Rhodesia lion and tusk on a scroll 'Rhodesia Defence Force'
- Buttons depicting the Rhodesia lion and tusk
SRDF
- Cap badge replaced with Rt facing collar badge of the RDF
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