Armed Response Unit

Overview

The Armed Response Unit (ARU) is the dedicated specialist firearms capability within the Joint Operations Unit (JOU) of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police. It delivers a 24/7 armed policing response across both force areas, providing immediate deployment to incidents involving firearms, weapons, or a credible threat to life.

In addition to its emergency response mandate, the ARU plays a pivotal role in counter-terrorism operations, high-risk search warrants, VIP protection, and proactive disruption of armed criminality. The unit operates under nationally approved protocols and is authorised, trained, and equipped to use lethal force only where absolutely necessary and proportionate.

All Armed Response Officers are nationally accredited Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs). Many progress to more advanced specialist roles such as Rifle Officers, Tactical Firearms Commanders, or Specialist Firearms Instructors.

Role and Responsibilities

The ARU’s key functions include:

• Responding to spontaneous and pre-planned firearms incidents

• Conducting high-risk warrants, searches, and arrests involving weapon threat

• Supporting counter-terrorism operations through armed intervention and threat mitigation

• Providing close protection and escort for VIPs and dignitaries

• Maintaining readiness through continuous tactical training, weapons handling, and legal assessments

• Safely resolving incidents involving threats to public safety where armed deployment is justified

The ARU operates under national guidance and oversight, including the College of Policing’s Armed Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP), and is accountable through internal scrutiny, external oversight (including the Independent Office for Police Conduct), and transparent operational review mechanisms.

Structure and Sub-Divisions

1. Armed Response Vehicle Department (ARVD)

The core frontline component of the ARU, responsible for 24/7 deployment across Hampshire and Thames Valley. ARVs are high-performance marked vehicles staffed by AFOs equipped with pistols, carbines, Tasers, and specialist tactical equipment. Teams patrol proactively and respond immediately to threats or firearms-related incidents.

2. Firearms Training Department

This unit is responsible for the recruitment, accreditation, and ongoing development of all firearms officers. Training includes judgement-based scenarios, legal use of force, weapons handling, team tactics, and operational command (Bronze/Silver/Gold levels). It also certifies Tactical Firearms Commanders (TFCs).

3. South East Counter Terrorism Unit (SECTU) 

The ARU integrates closely with SECTU, supporting counter-terrorism operations across the South East region. This includes planned and covert firearms deployments, threat-to-life interventions, and coordination with MI5 and other agencies.

4. Proactive Firearms Unit (PFU)

Conducts intelligence-led and covert operations targeting high-risk offenders, armed organised crime groups (OCGs), and gang activity. The unit also works closely with Serious and Organised Crime Units and regional intelligence networks.

5. Protection Group
   Provides close protection services for high-profile individuals, government officials, and dignitaries. This includes both overt and covert operations, site security, route planning, vehicle sweeps, and dynamic risk mitigation.

6. Rifle Officers Team
   Specialist marksmen trained in long-range precision engagement, operating from concealed or elevated positions. Rifle Officers are deployed for surveillance, high-risk arrests, and major public events where covert observation or immediate precision capability is required. Their training includes camouflage, concealment, rapid assessment, and emergency animal dispatch.

Capabilities and Equipment

• Armed Response Vehicles (ARVs): Specialist vehicles equipped with firearms lockers, ballistic shields, breaching tools, medical trauma kits, and advanced communications.

• Weapons Platforms: Includes Glock sidearms, SIG MCX carbines, Tasers, baton launchers, and where authorised, sniper rifles.

• Ballistic Protection: Helmets, ballistic vests, shields, and visors rated for high-threat situations.

• Surveillance Support: Deployed alongside drone units, ANPR, and mobile surveillance teams for real-time intelligence.

• Medical Provision: Tactical medics trained in catastrophic bleeding control, trauma airway management, and casualty evacuation in hostile environments.

Operational Framework

All ARU deployments are governed by strict national protocols:

• Code of Ethics, College of Policing APP (Armed Policing), and Human Rights Act compliance

• Use of Tactical Firearms Commanders (TFCs) to authorise and direct deployments

• Engagement with Strategic Firearms Commanders (SFCs) for pre-planned and multi-agency responses

• Regular internal and external audits, including firearms post-incident procedures (PIP) following any discharge of a weapon