The Ministry of Defense has contacted employers to tell them they are calling up 3,000 military reservists as part of the coronavirus crisis response.
The group are those with specialist skills needed to help the effort and they will be expected to serve for six months as part of the COVID-19 support force.
No-one already working for the NHS or front-line services is included.
Those called up will be used to help provide medical and logistical support or have engineering and accounting skills to help the NHS.
Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey said: “Our reservists are a truly remarkable group of people, each with their own skills and experience from their civilian careers beyond the armed forces.
“At times like these, to be able to draw on that pool of talent and expertise is invaluable.
“I know that our reservists will answer the nation’s call with real enthusiasm and will play a key part in our response to COVID-19.”