Defendu, also known as the Fairbairn Fighting System or Gutter Fighting, is a contemporary martial art created by William E. Fairbairn and Eric A. Sykes prior to World War II. This hand-to-hand combat system was designed to be practical, efficient, and easy to learn, making it an invaluable tool for military and law enforcement personnel.

Defendu was born out of the extensive combat experience of William E. Fairbairn during his time with the Shanghai Municipal Police in the early 20th century. Fairbairn, along with his colleague Eric A. Sykes, developed this system based on their training and knowledge in various martial arts, including boxing, judo, jujutsu, savate, wrestling, and street fighting. The goal was to create a system that was simple to learn and provided effective results in real-world combat situations.

Fairbairn published his book Defendu in 1926, which was later reprinted as Scientific Self Defence in 1931. The system was initially designed for self-defense and restraint, focusing on techniques that could be used by police officers to subdue suspects without causing unnecessary harm.

Principles and Techniques

Defendu operates on a set of principles designed to enhance practical and effective self-defense. These principles include:

• Simplicity: Techniques are straightforward and easy to learn, allowing practitioners to quickly become proficient.
• Efficiency: Movements are designed to be economical and effective, minimizing wasted effort and maximizing impact.
• Adaptability: Techniques can be adapted to various situations and opponents, making the system versatile and applicable in different contexts.
• Aggression: Emphasis is placed on taking the initiative and using surprise and aggression to gain the upper hand.

The techniques of Defendu focus on natural body movements, leverage, striking vulnerable areas, and employing surprise and aggression. Key techniques include:

• Strikes: Targeting vulnerable areas such as the eyes, throat, and groin to incapacitate an opponent quickly.
• Grappling: Using holds, throws, and joint locks to control or subdue an opponent.
• Defensive Maneuvers: Techniques to block or evade attacks and counter with effective strikes.

Military Applications

With the onset of World War II, the British military recognized the need for effective hand-to-hand combat training for their soldiers. Fairbairn and Sykes were called upon to train Allied troops, and they expanded Defendu into a more comprehensive Close Quarters Combat (CQC) system. This militarized version of Defendu focused on rapid disabling of an opponent, with potentially lethal force, and was taught to members of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and the Special Operations Executive (SOE).

The CQC system was built on the foundation of Defendu but modified for military applications. It included techniques for bayonet fighting, knife combat, and unarmed combat, all designed to be effective in the chaotic and high-stress environment of warfare.

Legacy and Influence

Defendu’s influence extends beyond its military applications. The system has left a lasting impact on the martial arts community and its principles continue to be taught in self-defense and combatives classes worldwide. Its principles of simplicity, efficiency, and adaptability resonate with modern self-defense philosophies.

Defendu also influenced notable martial artists, including Bruce Lee, who incorporated its principles into his own system, Jeet Kune Do. The practicality and efficiency of Defendu align closely with Lee’s martial arts philosophy.

Final Thoughts

Defendu is a clear example of the evolution of martial arts and combat systems. Developed from the practical experiences of William E. Fairbairn and Eric A. Sykes, it has proven its effectiveness in both law enforcement and military contexts. Its principles and techniques continue to be relevant and valuable for self-defense, making Defendu a significant and enduring contribution to the world of martial arts.

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