The Specialist Firearms Officer is the next stage of progression within SCO-19, recognising officers who have demonstrated professionalism, experience, and a strong commitment to the division.
SFOs are entrusted with greater responsibilities, including supervising less experienced officers, and ensuring scenes are handled safely and professionally. They are expected to display strong leadership, make the correct decisions under pressure, and set a positive example for others within the division.
Promotion to SFO is awarded to officers who have consistently proven themselves through their activity, conduct, and overall contribution to SCO-19, marking them as trusted and experienced members of the division.
As an SFO, you are expected to take control of incidents when required and provide guidance and oversight to AFOs on scene. SFOs are considered more experienced and trusted members of SCO-19 and, as such, hold greater authority and responsibility within the division.
In addition to their patrol duties, SFOs may also become involved in the division's training programme, assisting with training sessions and supporting the development of newly qualified Probationary AFOs.
SFOs are authorised to utilise equipment such as the M4 Carbine and Smoke Grenades. Upon promotion to SFO, officers are also considered ARV trained. In addition, SFOs become eligible to undertake Low Speed Tactical Contact Training.
There is currently no set time frame for promotion to OFC. Promotions to this rank are made at the discretion of SCO-19 Command, when they believe an individual has shown the qualities expected of an OFC.
As the highest rank within SCO-19, OFC is reserved for the best officers within the division. OFCs are expected to consistently display a professional attitude both in-game and out-of-game, maintain the high standards of SCO-19, and lead by example at all times.
Officers aspiring to reach OFC should demonstrate an elite level of leadership, exercise strong decision-making and scene control, regularly attend training sessions, and actively contribute to the development of the division by assisting others whenever required.