As many as 3,500 military personnel could be called upon, with around 10% of those being reservists.

The Ministry of Defence has activated a nerve centre named 'Operation Redfold' in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

The Ministry of Defence says it will consider requests from other Government departments (Picture: Crown Copyright).

Op Yellowhammer is the codename used by the Treasury to refer to cross-government no-deal contingency planning.

Now Op Redfold has been activated, MOD officials are stepping up their plans to be ready to respond to any requests for military assistance that may come from other government departments, in the event of a no-deal exit from the European Union next week.

It follows confirmation earlier this year that reservists could be called out on operations if Britain leaves the European Union without a deal.

Commanding officers would be able to send 'call out' notices to personnel if requested by government departments.

An MOD spokesperson told Forces News: "We are always willing to support wider government planning for any scenario, and we have committed to holding 3,500 troops at readiness to aid contingency plans.

"We will consider any requests from other government departments if they feel defence capability could contribute to their no-deal planning."