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Royal Air Force Police
Royal Air Force Police
Royal Air Force Police
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Royal Air Force Police
Badge of the RAFP
Active1 April 1918 – present
CountryUnited Kingdom United Kingdom
Branch Royal Air Force
TypeService police
RolePolicing, protective security and counter-intelligence
NicknameSnowdrops
MottosFiat justitia
(Latin: Let justice be done)[1]
MarchRAF Police March Past
Commanders
Provost marshal
(RAF)		 Group Captain Samantha Bunn
Provost Marshal Warrant Officer Warrant Officer Alex Tathem[2]
Insignia
Identification
symbol
United Kingdom
Royal Air Force
of the British Armed Forces
Components
  • Special Forces
History and future
Aircraft
Personnel
Organisation
Auxiliary services

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) is the service police branch of the Royal Air Force, headed by the provost marshal of the Royal Air Force. Its headquarters are at RAF Honington, and it deploys throughout the world to support RAF and UK defence missions.

History

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Foreground - Cpl Brian Nash and on the left, directing Army motorcyclist, is Cpl Harry Petters, RAF Police, 2nd Tactical Air Force, 1943–1945, controlling traffic at "Gripper's Cross", a busy roundabout on the Caen to Bayeux Road in Normandy.

The RAF Police was formed on 1 April 1918, when the RAF was formed by the merger of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service. By the end of World War II there were 500 officers and 20,000 NCOs in the RAF Police. In January 1947, the RAF Provost Branch became a Specialist Branch within the RAF. In December 1950, George VI approved the badge and motto Fiat Justitia. By 2009, the RAF Police had served in 66 countries around the globe.

Uniform and insignia

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See also: Uniforms of the Royal Air Force

RAF Police non-commissioned officers and warrant officers are noticeable by their white-topped caps (giving rise to their nickname of "Snowdrops"),[3] which they have worn since 1945, and by black and red flashes worn below their rank slides. RAF Police commissioned officers wear the standard peaked cap of all RAF officers, with the red and black flashes. In dress uniform, all RAF Police wear a red and black brassard on the left arm, reflecting the flashes worn with normal working dress. In tactical dress, RAF Police personnel wear red "MP" badges, the internationally recognised symbol for military police.

The oath

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"I do solemnly and sincerely declare and affirm that as a member of the Royal Air Force Police I will well and truly serve His Majesty the King, acting with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality, upholding fundamental human rights and according equal respect to all people; and that I will, to the best of my power, maintain service law and investigate independently and impartially all service offences against people and property; and that while I continue to be a member of the Royal Air Force Police I will, to the best of my skill and knowledge, discharge all the duties of that appointment faithfully according to law."[4]

Role

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Royal Air Force Police member with distinctive armband and white cap in 2011.
A Royal Air Force Police Dog Handler attached to 42 Commando, on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan (2011).

The RAF Police are responsible for the policing and security of all service personnel, much like their Royal Navy and British Army counterparts.

Provision of policing, counter-intelligence and specialist security support to the RAF includes:[5]

  • Front line, Response and Law Enforcement duties
  • Criminal and security investigation
  • Serious and Complex Criminal Investigations – a DSCU responsibility since December 2022[citation needed]
  • Aircraft protection and security
  • Covert Operations
  • Counter Intelligence Operations
  • Cyber and information security
  • Military working dogs
  • Force protection (on deployed operations)
  • Close protection of VIPs

In addition to policing, the RAF Police has security investigators tasked with the investigation of non-criminal conduct offences involving security threats.

The Special Investigation Branch has been disbanded and replaced with the tri-service Defence Serious Crime Unit.

Counter Intelligence Operations Squadron investigate security breaches and support the RAF through the gathering of intelligence and protective security based activities.

These specialist capabilities are supported by forensic and intelligence units. Members of all wings are used for operations overseas, deploying as individuals, with the aircraft they support, or as a formed unit drawn together under the Tactical Police Squadrons. Members of the RAF Police may also specialise in close protection duties, ensuring the safety of VIPs and other dignitaries in hostile environments.[6]

The RAF Police are the only branch of the Service Police who operate police dogs within the UK military. They manage all RAF military working dogs, with detachments at some RAF stations. RAF Police dogs and their handlers support overseas operations. Recently, this has included Iraq and Afghanistan, in both patrol and specialist search roles.[7]

The RAF Police is subject to inspection by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary, in the same way as the UK's civilian police forces.[8]

Organisation

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Office of the Provost Marshal (OPM) is the HQ of the Provost Marshal, who holds the rank of group captain. A component of the RAF's Global Enablement Organisation and now re-rolled as the Air Security Force (ASF), the RAF Police is organised into capability wings that operate both within the UK and overseas.

The Provost Marshal also holds the title Commander of the Air Security Force.

Detachments of RAF Police can be found at some RAF stations. Usually, the detachment consists of a Flight, commanded by either a Flying Officer or a Flight Lieutenant; a Flight Sergeant or Sergeant usually functions as the senior non-commissioned officer of the flight.

RAF Police Flights are responsible to and directed by a RAF Police Squadron. Squadron HQs are based at the larger RAF stations and provide remote oversight of the Police Flights at the units within their respective area of responsibility. Squadron HQs are themselves responsible to, and directed by, the Deputy Provost Marshal of the RAF Police, who is a wing commander. RAF Police personnel are not responsible to, or under the direct command of, the Commanding Officer (Station Commander) of the station at which they are situated; all service police on RAF Police wings remain under the command of the Provost Marshal (RAF). Their authority to act as service police stems directly from the Armed Forces Act 2006. Service police are able to issue lawful commands to any service person, regardless of their rank or trade.

The RAF Police also provides the RAF's Counter-intelligence & Protective Security (CI & PS) role, similar to that carried out by the Intelligence Corps and elements of the Royal Signals of the British Army. IT Security is a further specialisation within the protective security field, and personnel trained to this level are expected to perform all PS and IT Security related tasks. Over 400 RAF Police personnel are seconded to roles within Strategic Command, providing Counter Intelligence and Protective Security capabilities to UK and overseas operations. No Law Enforcement capability is maintained on StratCom.

New operating model, 2021

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The RAF Police is to reform in 2021–2022. These reforms will see Wing Headquarters align with individual RAF groups, and the squadrons align with individual operational forces (e.g. Lightning Force, ISTAR Force, etc.) within their respective groups.[9][10]

Future Operating Model, 2022

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In 2022, HQ AIR instigated a rapid and challenging change program in its operating model for the whole of the RAF.[11] This has seen all single service SIBs amalgamate into a single formation headed by a newly created Provost Marshal (Serious Crime), resulting in the RAF SIB capability being handed to the new Defence Serious Crime Unit.

In November 2022, the 1-star (Air Officer (AO) FP) was re-roled into AO Global Enablement (GE), resulting in the disbandment of the FP Force.

PM(RAF) is in command of the RAF Police, MPGS and associated civil servants. This new force is known as the Air Security Force (ASF). PM(RAF) also now attracts the title of Commander ASF.

Instead of the traditional geographical squadrons, there are now three Police and Security wings and nine capability-facing squadrons. These are:

Wings

  • 1 Police & Sy – People facing
  • 2 Police & Sy – Platform facing
  • 3 Police & Sy – Air Mobility facing Sqns
  • 1 Tactical Police & Sy Sqn
  • 2 Counter Intelligence and Security Sqn
  • 3 Police (Reserves) & Sy Sqn
  • 4 Police & Sy Sqn supporting the Typhoon Force
  • 5 Police & Sy Sqn supporting the ISTAR Force
  • 6 Police & Sy Sqn supporting the Lightning Force
  • 7 Police & Sy Sqn supporting the Air Mobility Force
  • 8 Police & Sy Sqn supporting the 22 Gp Training Units
  • 9 Police & Sy Sqn supporting Battlespace Management & Space Force.

Recent operations

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Royal Air Force Police guarding the Main Entry Point at Camp Bastion in Helmand Province, Afghanistan (2013).

In Afghanistan, as part of the RAF's Force Protection Wing, the RAF Police provided security for Camp Bastion[12] along with external support to frontline troops, operating within fighting patrols, detainee handling and Weapon Intelligence Specialists.

On 12 May 2012, Cpl Brent McCarthy – an RAF Policeman stationed at RAF Brize Norton – was shot and killed while on duty in Helmand Province.[13]

RAF Police, along with other units, took part in the Mobility Guardian exercise in 2017.[14]

Between the 14 Aug 21 and 28 Aug 21, RAF Police deployed on Op PITTING alongside 16 Air Assault Brigade. Screening and securing approx 122,000 people evacuating from Afghanistan.

Training

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Main article: Defence School of Policing and Security
A Royal Air Force Police military working dog handler with a dog during training in 2022.

Ground trades personnel within the Royal Air Force start their service career at RAF Halton where they undergo basic training consisting of 10 weeks. Once this is successfully completed, recruit intakes are dispersed to the various Ground Trades Training Schools.

Potential RAF Police recruits are trained at the Defence School of Policing and Security at Southwick Park, Hampshire, along with recruits of the Royal Navy Police and the Royal Military Police. In order to conduct some of the wider specialist roles, particularly involving the investigation of more serious and complex crime and security investigations, extensive further post-graduation training is provided outside DSPS to all RAF Police specialists by Home Office police forces and training providers. Most of the training requirements of a Home Office police force in terms of detective training and covert operations are delivered to specialist RAF Police elements.

During the 1950s, training was carried out at RAF Netheravon in Wiltshire, and in the 1960s at RAF Debden near Saffron Walden. Until the mid-1990s, trade training took place at RAF Newton in Nottinghamshire, before moving to RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. In 2004, all UK service police training was consolidated at Southwick Park.

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Royal Air Force Police

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The (RAFP) is the dedicated branch of the United Kingdom's , responsible for , protective security, counter-intelligence, and aviation security to safeguard personnel, bases, and from threats including , , and . Established concurrently with the RAF on 1 April 1918, the RAFP has evolved to encompass criminal investigations, military operations, and tactical policing in both domestic and expeditionary environments. Key operational contributions include securing forward operating bases during conflicts such as in , where RAFP elements provided protection and external security support to coalition forces. The force has developed specialized capabilities, such as the Project digital application, which enhances situational response, administrative efficiency, and operational resilience through . While inspections affirm effective leadership and commitment to core policing functions, evaluations of investigations into , serious sexual assaults, and domestic have identified shortcomings in compliance with national standards and timely case progression, prompting recommendations for enhanced training and oversight.

History

Formation and Early Years (1918–1939)

The Royal Air Force Police originated on 1 April 1918, concurrent with the establishment of the RAF through the merger of the Royal Flying Corps and . This new entity incorporated existing elements from both predecessor services, forming a dedicated service police force responsible for discipline, crime prevention, and airfield security amid the chaos of I's aftermath. Initial personnel numbered in the low hundreds, drawn largely from army backgrounds, and operated under the , adapting army-style structures to aviation-specific needs such as guarding and hangars from theft or . In the immediate post-war years of (1918–1919), the service police managed large-scale troop reductions, which saw the RAF shrink from over 4,000 aircraft and 290,000 personnel to a peacetime strength of around 70 squadrons by 1920. They enforced order during outbreaks of unrest, including mutinies and looting at stations like and , where rapid fueled discontent over delays in discharges and pay. Overseas, detachments were sent to protect RAF assets in volatile regions; by 1921, small units supported air operations in against tribal revolts, focusing on perimeter security and investigation of local thefts targeting supplies. Throughout the and early , the force emphasized routine duties at stations—patrols, traffic regulation, and suppression of gambling or alcohol-related offenses—while maintaining modest overseas garrisons in and to counter theft and amid Mandate-era tensions. Personnel wore distinctive armbands rather than full uniforms until the mid-, reflecting the RAF's resource constraints during the Geddes Axe cuts, which halved budgets and limited police expansion. By 1936, rearmament under the Inskip Doctrine prompted recruitment drives, increasing authorized strength to over 1,000 by 1939, with specialized training at depots like . This buildup addressed rising threats from , leading to the creation of the first mobile Tactical Provost Unit in September 1939 for expeditionary duties with the British Expeditionary Force in .

World War II and Immediate Post-War Period (1939–1950s)

The RAF Provost Branch expanded its role during to provide military policing, discipline enforcement, and security for air operations across multiple theatres. In , the first RAF Tactical Provost Unit was formed and deployed to France alongside the British Expeditionary Force, handling traffic control, straggler management, and general amid the rapid advance and subsequent retreat. By 1944, as Allied forces prepared for the Normandy invasion, small RAF Tactical Provost Sections were organised to deploy with invasion forces, establishing order on and Juno beaches immediately after D-Day landings on 6 June, including prisoner handling, deserter apprehension, and protection of airfields from sabotage. These units operated under challenging conditions, integrating with ground forces to maintain discipline among the growing RAF personnel strength, which necessitated provost support for crime investigation, suppression, and security at forward operating bases in , , and the . Provost personnel, often drawn from general service airmen with specialised training, focused on causal factors of disorder such as wartime stresses, alcohol-related incidents, and activities, prioritising empirical enforcement over punitive excess to sustain operational readiness. In the immediate post-war period, the faced demobilisation and restructuring amid RAF force reductions from wartime peaks. On 1 January 1947, authority was granted to establish the RAF Provost Branch as a dedicated specialist , transferring all existing provost officers into it and formalising its separation from general duties. This reorganisation addressed post-war policing needs in occupied territories and garrisons, with units redeployed to locations such as and the for security against looting, fraternisation violations, and emerging threats from displaced persons. By the early 1950s, the initiated training programs for locally employed auxiliary policemen in overseas commands, including , , and the , to supplement regular forces amid colonial withdrawals and tensions. In December 1950, King George VI approved the Provost Branch's cap badge—a winged symbolising justice—and its motto, ("Let justice be done though the heavens may fall"), reflecting a commitment to impartial enforcement grounded in legal principles rather than expediency. These developments solidified the branch's institutional identity, enabling it to adapt from wartime exigencies to peacetime professionalisation while maintaining focus on verifiable threats to RAF cohesion and assets.

Cold War Era and Reorganisation (1950s–1990s)

In the early 1950s, the RAF Provost Branch, formalized as a specialist entity since 1947, emphasized training and deployment of locally employed auxiliary policemen across overseas stations including the , , , , and to bolster policing capabilities amid expanding RAF commitments during the escalating tensions. King George VI's approval of the branch's badge and motto Fiat Justitia in 1950 symbolized its institutional maturation, aligning with heightened security needs as the RAF integrated nuclear deterrence into its strategic posture. Personnel numbers grew to support static base security and mobile operations, with a focus on countering and threats from intelligence activities. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the RAF Police assumed primary responsibility for safeguarding nuclear weapons storage facilities, such as RAF Barnham in , which housed tactical atomic bombs like and from 1958 onward; sites featured multi-layered perimeters, guard towers, and constant patrols enforced by Provost Branch personnel to prevent unauthorized access or theft amid Soviet . In , under 2nd Allied Tactical structures, detachments provided airfield security, traffic control, and investigative services at bases like and Wildenrath, where V-bomber dispersals and operations demanded rigorous personnel reliability checks and arms proficiency to deter potential incursions. Counter-intelligence units expanded to monitor internal threats, including vetting for loyalty in an era of defections and ideological subversion, while general policing extended to disciplinary enforcement under Queen’s Regulations. By the 1970s and 1980s, evolving doctrines prompted adaptations in RAF Police operations, including joint exercises simulating wartime base defense against airborne assault and the incorporation of specialized close protection details for VIPs, often in coordination with other service police amid terrorist threats from groups like the targeting European bases. The branch maintained nuclear convoy escorts and site protection at dispersed locations, with personnel undergoing enhanced training in weapons handling and intrusion detection systems as analog security transitioned toward early electronic aids. Reorganizations remained incremental, prioritizing integration with elements for unified under emerging two-star oversight proposals, though core Provost functions preserved independence for judicial policing. As the waned in the late 1980s, force reductions post-1989 fall led to base closures in and rationalization of overseas detachments, redirecting resources toward expeditionary readiness while sustaining domestic investigative branches like the for fraud and serious crime probes.

Post-Cold War Modernisation (1990s–2010)

Following the end of the Cold War and the 1990 Options for Change defence review, the Royal Air Force underwent substantial force reductions, with regular manpower decreasing from 88,500 to 75,000 by the mid-1990s, impacting support elements including the RAF Police through personnel cuts and structural adjustments. These changes shifted focus from large static bases, particularly in Germany, to more flexible, expeditionary operations, requiring the RAF Police to realign for global tactical support amid reduced numbers. In the mid-1990s, RAF Police trade training relocated from in to in , enhancing centralised instruction amid broader RAF training consolidations. This move supported adaptation to new operational demands, including security for deployments in the (1990-1991) and subsequent Balkans peacekeeping missions, where RAF elements enforced no-fly zones and humanitarian efforts under Operations Deny Flight and Deliberate Force. The emphasis grew on , integrating policing with security measures like the Air Transport Security system to counter hijacking and threats. By the early 2000s, ongoing modernisation addressed emerging asymmetric threats, culminating in the 2004 establishment of the , which incorporated RAF Police capabilities for integrated base defence and tactical policing. Training further evolved with the October 2005 consolidation at the Defence Police College in Southwick Park, , where RAF Police joined and for joint Phase 2 and advanced courses, promoting interoperability across services. This tri-service approach, effective from November 2005, standardised procedures and equipment, preparing personnel for high-intensity deployments such as those in and up to 2010.

Organisation and Command

Overall Structure and Leadership

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) is commanded by the Provost Marshal (RAF), a position held by a Group Captain who also serves as Commander of the Air Security Force, providing overall strategic direction for policing, security, and protective functions across RAF operations. The Provost Marshal holds ultimate police authority, oversees investigations, counter-intelligence, and protective security measures including military working dogs and aviation security, and reports directly to the Chief of the Air Staff via the Air Force Board. Supporting this role is the Provost Marshal Warrant Officer, a senior non-commissioned advisor on operational and welfare matters, with Warrant Officer Alex Tatham appointed to the position on 28 July 2025. Group Captain Samantha Bunn assumed duties as on 3 June 2024 for a two-year term, having previously commanded No. 2 RAF Police and Security Wing after commissioning as a Provost Officer in 2003 following her initial enlistment in 1995. In this dual role, she directs approximately 3,500 personnel comprising regular and reserve RAF members, civil servants, and contractors, ensuring integrated law enforcement and security resilience for global RAF deployments. The RAFP operates as the core policing element within the Air Security Force, headquartered at , which integrates police, security, and intelligence capabilities to enable RAF . This force commands three specialized Police and Security Wings—No. 1 RAF Police Counter Intelligence and Security Wing for specialist intelligence and counter-threat operations; No. 2 Police and Security Wing, the largest, supporting intelligence, surveillance, , (ISTAR), combat air, management, and space elements; and No. 3 Police and Security Wing for scalable, rapid-response policing in air mobility and expeditionary contexts—alongside nine regular squadrons and one reserve squadron. The Office of the Provost Marshal at functions as the strategic headquarters, coordinating policy, training, and operational oversight while aligning RAFP activities with broader Air Security Force objectives under the 's command. This structure emphasizes decentralized execution through wings and squadrons, with centralized leadership ensuring compliance with military law and alignment to RAF priorities such as operational security and personnel welfare.

Regional Wings and Units

The Royal Air Force Police operates through three functional Police and Security Wings under the Air Security Force, headquartered at in , which collectively oversee nine regular squadrons and one reserve squadron dispersed across RAF stations in the to provide nationwide and deployable policing support. These wings are organized by capability rather than strict geographic regions, but their squadrons and detachments are regionally aligned to RAF bases, enabling localized , security, and investigative functions at key sites such as those in , , and . This structure supports scalable responses to threats, with personnel deployable globally while maintaining baseline coverage at domestic stations. No. 1 RAF Police Counter Intelligence and Security Wing specializes in intelligence-driven policing, counter-intelligence operations, and protective security measures to safeguard RAF personnel, assets, and information against and insider threats. It includes elements of the (North), based at in , which handles complex criminal and security investigations across northern RAF sites. The wing's units contribute to protective security advice and risk assessments at stations like and , integrating with broader Air Command efforts. No. 2 Police and Security Wing, the largest of the three, delivers comprehensive policing and security effects, including , aviation security, and advisory support to commanders on operational risks; its is at in , overseeing four capability-aligned squadrons focused on platform for aircraft and infrastructure. Squadrons under this wing operate regionally, such as detachments at in for northern maritime and strike command support, and at in for F-35 operations, providing on-site policing, searches, and counter-terrorism patrols. (South) elements at in fall under this wing, conducting inquiries into service discipline and serious crimes in southern and central regions. No. 3 Police and Security Wing emphasizes rapid, integrated responses for air mobility and expeditionary operations, delivering scalable security for transport fleets and deployed forces, with units like No. 1 Tactical Police and Security Squadron based primarily at in to protect C-17, A400M, and Voyager aircraft. It incorporates reserve capabilities through No. 3 RAF Police (Reserve) Squadron at , which augments regular forces for regional surges and overseas tasks, including searches and guarding at forward locations. This wing's structure facilitates quick detachment to regional hubs like for mobility command and supports joint operations across UK bases, ensuring continuity during high-tempo deployments.

Reforms and Operating Models (2021–2022)

In 2021, the Royal Air Force Police introduced a new operating model to enhance alignment with the RAF's operational groups and improve integration. This restructuring involved reallocating teams and transitioning squadron affiliations, such as at where personnel shifted from No. 5 RAF Police Squadron to a new configuration under the model, enabling more responsive policing support to front-line units. The changes emphasized a dual-tier approach, with station-based practitioners handling routine duties and specialized investigative units focusing on complex cases, aiming to streamline across RAF commands. A key element of the 2021–2022 reforms was the reorganization of tactical elements, including the amalgamation of Tactical Police Flights and Air Security Flights to form No. 1 (Tactical) Police and Security Squadron in 2022. Based at with detachments at other sites, this squadron combined aviation security, , and protective duties to safeguard the Air Mobility Force globally, reflecting a shift toward multifunctional units capable of rapid deployment. Concurrently, Police Wings were realigned to mirror RAF Groups—such as No. 1 Group for air combat and No. 2 Group for air mobility—facilitating direct support to specific operational theaters and reducing administrative silos. These reforms were part of broader Air Security Force enhancements, integrating RAF Police more closely with counter-intelligence and management functions to address evolving s like . By mid-2022, the model had disbanded or repurposed legacy squadrons, such as elements of No. 7 RAF Police Squadron, in favor of group-aligned wings, improving efficiency without expanding personnel numbers amid defence budget constraints. The changes prioritized empirical assessments over prior decentralized structures, though faced challenges from personnel transitions and training demands.

Roles and Responsibilities

General Policing Duties

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) execute general policing duties primarily through four General Policing Duties (GPD) squadrons, which conduct patrols, first response to incidents, and investigations of criminal offences on RAF stations in the and overseas. These functions enforce the Armed Forces Act 2006, granting RAFP personnel arrest powers and investigative authority over service offences committed by RAF members, civilians subject to service law, and related parties, akin to those of constabularies. GPD units prioritize volume crimes such as , , , and substance misuse, responding to ensure scene preservation, suspect identification, and initial evidence collection. Day-to-day operations involve routine base patrols to prevent and detect offences, , and enforcement of disciplinary standards, with personnel utilizing tools like body-worn video and the Police National Computer for real-time data access and compliance with the National Crime Recording Standard. Investigations encompass examinations, for non-specialized cases, and where applicable, often led by non-commissioned officers under supervisory oversight. Less complex matters, including minor domestic incidents, are handled directly by GPD teams, which assess risks using standardized forms and escalate serious allegations—such as or —to dedicated investigators. Policing priorities are established using the National Intelligence Model, directing resources toward recurrent issues like and low-level assaults while integrating advice to station commanders for proactive . RAFP officers oversee these efforts, leading mixed teams that include military provost guards to sustain order and support air operations through efficient incident resolution. This structure enables rapid response times and victim-focused outcomes, though inspections have noted variability in training and supervision for foundational tasks.

Security and Protective Functions

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) undertakes protective security duties to safeguard personnel, aircraft, and installations from threats including , , and . These functions encompass measures such as , perimeter patrols, and explosive ordnance detection at RAF bases and forward operating locations. A key element involves counter-intelligence and protective security operations, where RAFP specialists identify and mitigate risks from hostile intelligence activities and insider threats. This includes conducting security audits, vulnerability assessments, and implementing mitigation strategies to maintain operational resilience. Deployable units, such as No. 1 Tactical Police and Security Squadron, deliver specialist aviation security for the Air Mobility Force, protecting air wings during global operations through armed patrols, search procedures, and close protection for high-value assets. Military working dog teams enhance these efforts by performing detection, , and apprehension tasks to secure airfields and recover evidence. In high-threat environments, RAFP personnel integrate policing with security protocols to enable air , as demonstrated in operations like those at Camp Bastion, , where they defended against insurgent attacks on forward bases. These roles ensure compliance with security policies while adapting to evolving threats such as cyber-physical risks.

Investigative and Counter-Intelligence Operations

The Specialist Investigations Branch of the Royal Air Force Police, integrated into the Defence Serious Crime Unit (DSCU) since December 2022, conducts higher-level law enforcement and investigative operations to detect, deter, and disrupt criminal threats to , material, and information. This branch supports air operations domestically and abroad, including investigations into serious aircraft-related complaints, compensation claims, and breaches of flying discipline through the Defence Flying Complaints Investigation Team. RAF sections operate from locations such as and , collaborating with broader Defence activities to address complex cases. As part of DSCU, which holds global over persons subject to service law, RAF Police investigators focus on serious and complex crimes, including sexual offences, incidents involving children, and major investigations. These efforts integrate with the Service Justice System, encompassing coordination with the Service Prosecuting Authority and Military Court Service, to ensure thorough prosecution of offences committed by RAF personnel. The branch provides specialist training and engagement on such crimes via the RAF Police Engagement Team, enhancing investigative consistency and expertise across the force. Counter-intelligence operations are led by 2 RAF Police Counter Intelligence Squadron, based at , which discreetly gathers intelligence on threats to RAF personnel and platforms, including assets like the F-35, , ISTAR systems, and air mobility fleets. The squadron detects, identifies, and assesses risks from hostile intelligence services, , , , , and organised crime, conducting investigations to mitigate security breaches and developing threat assessments to inform commanders' decisions. Operations occur in the UK and overseas, often in partnership with allies to disrupt threats and protect air capabilities across domains. Investigative efforts receive scientific and technical support from the Forensic Exploitation Flight at , which includes a Scientific Support Unit for analysis and advice, alongside a Team that retrieves evidential data from devices such as computers, mobiles, and communication records in a forensically robust manner. This integration enables comprehensive evidence handling in both criminal and counter-intelligence contexts, bolstering the RAF Police's ability to address security and challenges.

Uniform, Insignia, and Traditions

Uniform and Equipment

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) uniform aligns with standard RAF service dress, featuring air force blue for ceremonial and working variants, supplemented by trade-specific . Non-commissioned officers and warrant officers wear a distinctive -topped in service dress, which originated from historical white helmet covers and contributes to the branch's "Snowdrops". This cap design persists in formal settings, while operational duties employ (MTP) combat clothing with RAF Police arm patches and "MP" badges beneath the trade rank flash (TRF) for identification. In field and security operations, RAFP personnel utilize including body armour, helmets, and respirators for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats, as required during basic training phases. Standard accoutrements comprise extendable batons, rigid , personal radios for communication, and incapacitant sprays such as PAVA for non-lethal restraint. Military handlers equip protection and detection dogs with specialized harnesses, leads, and search apparatus for explosive ordnance detection and patrol duties. Armed elements within the RAFP, particularly in aviation security and tactical police squadrons, receive on firearms including 9mm self-loading pistols for close protection and aircraft guarding roles. Weapon handling packages encompass live firing, night shooting, and tactical scenarios to maintain proficiency in base defence and counter-terrorism tasks. Access to carbines may support higher-threat environments, aligning with the branch's evolution toward enhanced post-Cold War. Vehicles such as armoured Land Rovers facilitate mobile patrols and rapid response.

Insignia, Ranks, and Symbols

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) utilizes the standard rank structure of the Royal Air Force for both commissioned officers and other ranks. Commissioned officers progress from through to higher air ranks, with the —the head of the RAFP—holding the rank of . Enlisted personnel commence at Air Specialist following basic training but are typically promoted to Acting upon completion of specialist RAF Police training, advancing thereafter to , , , Chief Technician, and . Distinctive identify RAFP members across uniforms. On service dress, personnel wear caps with a white vinyl or cloth top, a feature originating from historical designs that led to the informal "Snowdrops." In tactical or (MTP) uniforms, red "MP" arm badges signify authority. for other ranks consist of embroidered "RAFP" lettering in red on a black background, while the Air Provost Marshal's features "APM" in a similar red-on-black design. Rank-specific shoulder straps for RAFP personnel incorporate olive green backing with standard RAF rank braids for various grades, including , , , , , , , , , and . The primary symbol of the RAFP is its , featuring a griffin—symbolizing vigilance and strength—positioned beneath a royal crown, encircled by the Latin Fiat Justitia ("Let justice be done"). This badge was designed and approved by King George VI on 1 December 1950, reflecting the branch's commitment to impartial enforcement. The griffin motif draws from heraldic traditions denoting guardianship, aligning with the RAFP's protective and policing roles.

Oath and Ethical Standards

Members of the Royal Air Force Police (RAFP), upon attestation as regular or reserve personnel, swear or affirm the standard Oath of Allegiance required of all RAF service members, pledging loyalty to the Sovereign and commitment to lawful orders. The oath reads: "I, [name], do swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles III, His Heirs and Successors, and that I will, as in duty bound, honestly and faithfully defend His Majesty, His Heirs and Successors, in Person, Crown and Dignity, against all enemies, and will observe and obey all orders of His Majesty, His Heirs and Successors, and of all the Generals and officers set over me. So help me God." An affirmation variant omits the religious element for those preferring a secular declaration, substituting "I do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm" for the opening and concluding phrases. This oath is administered during initial training or graduation ceremonies, such as those at RAF Honington for RAFP Reservists, reinforcing personal accountability to the Crown and chain of command. The RAFP upholds ethical standards through its dedicated , outlined in Air Publication (AP) 1722, which establishes benchmarks for professional behavior, , and operational specific to policing roles within the RAF. This mandates impartiality in investigations, in handling sensitive information, and adherence to principles under the Armed Forces Act 2006, with violations subject to disciplinary action via courts-martial or administrative measures. Additionally, RAFP personnel align with broader RAF core values— first, service before self, and excellence—integrated into and evaluations to ensure in high-stakes environments like counter-intelligence and protective security. Inspections by bodies such as His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services have noted the 's role in benchmarking unit against minimum standards, though unpublished details limit public scrutiny of implementation specifics.

Training and Recruitment

Basic and Initial Training Processes

Recruits for the Royal Air Force Police undergo a structured progression beginning with the 10-week Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at in . This phase instills foundational military discipline and skills, including marching and drills, core RAF values and code of conduct, initial measures, survival techniques in military environments, and field exercises such as Exercise Blue Warrior. Physical fitness development and preparation for graduation form integral components, ensuring recruits meet the operational standards required for service in a combat-ready environment. Upon passing out from BRTC, RAF Police airmen and airwomen advance to the 22-week RAF Police Initial Course at the Defence School of Policing and Guarding (DSPG), located at MOD Southwick Park in . This specialist phase equips trainees with policing-specific competencies, encompassing procedures, investigative techniques, counter-intelligence operations, protective security protocols, aviation security, and handling of RAF police dogs. Training emphasizes practical application, including witness and suspect interviews, statement-taking, and adherence to military law, conducted in a joint-service environment at DSPG to align with tri-service policing standards. For RAF Police officers, initial training differs, commencing with the 24-week Initial Officer Training (IOT) at RAF College Cranwell, which focuses on , airpower studies, physical and mental resilience, and command skills. This is followed by the 22-week RAF Police Officers' Course at DSPG Southwick Park, mirroring enlisted specialist content but adapted for in policing roles. Successful completion of these phases qualifies personnel for operational duties, with ongoing assessments ensuring proficiency in high-stakes security and enforcement tasks.

Specialised and Advanced Training

Specialised training for Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) personnel builds upon the foundational Royal Air Force Police Initial Course (RAFPIC), which lasts 23 weeks and covers general policing duties, investigations, and security at the Defence School of Policing and Guarding (DSPG) in Southwick Park, . Advanced courses focus on niche roles including protective security, aviation security, counter-intelligence, close protection, and military working dog (MWD) handling, enabling personnel to address specific threats to RAF assets and operations. These programs emphasise practical skills such as threat assessment, tactical response, and forensic techniques, often delivered jointly with other service police branches at DSPG or . The Protective Security Course, a 17-week program for non-commissioned officers (NCOs), trains participants in asset protection for both domestic and deployed environments, incorporating virtual theory phases followed by practical exercises like Exercise KALI SALIM to simulate real-world scenarios. Entry requires IELTS Level 8 proficiency and security clearance, with two courses run annually accommodating 15 personnel each. For commissioned officers, the Royal Air Force Police Officers’ Course spans 19 weeks and equips leaders to manage investigations, custody procedures, and personnel welfare, including modules on crime scene management, interviewing, and forensic awareness; it supports up to 12 officers per session across two annual iterations. These officer-focused programs follow initial officer training and prioritise deployable fitness and NATO SECRET clearance. In aviation security, RAFP specialists undergo training as Military Aviation Protection Officers (MAPOs) at the Specialist Training Flight in , focusing on counter-terrorism measures for airfields and transport hubs. Close protection training occurs through the joint Service Police Close Protection Unit, featuring an 8-week course in advanced firearms handling with the C8 carbine, high-speed driving, and VIP escort drills to mitigate principal threats. MWD handling represents another advanced specialisation, with handlers completing 12 weeks of role-specific after basic animal care instruction, emphasising detection of explosives, narcotics, and intruder patrol at facilities like the Defence Animal Training Centre and . Dog teams enhance force multiplication, where one handler-dog unit equates to the search capacity of eight personnel, and ongoing seminars at refine tactics. Such ensures RAFP adaptability to evolving security demands, with periodic refreshers maintaining proficiency.

Recruitment Challenges and Standards

Eligibility for the Royal Air Force Police requires applicants to be aged between 17.5 and 47 years, with attestation occurring before the 48th birthday, and possession of a at grade C/4 or equivalent in . Candidates must hold or obtain a full manual licence prior to , be a citizen or hold dual /other nationality, and demonstrate residency in the for at least five years immediately preceding application (with a minimum of three years considered case-by-case). A minimum service commitment of three years follows completion of Phase Two , alongside passing the Defence Assessment, which evaluates cognitive abilities relevant to operational demands. Disqualifiers include unspent criminal convictions, history of drug misuse, offensive tattoos or body piercings, and undischarged bankruptcy. Fitness standards emphasize physical readiness for high-threat environments, beginning with the Pre-Joining Fitness Test comprising a 2.4 km run at zero incline, with time requirements varying by age and —for instance, males aged 17–29 must complete it in under 13 minutes 20 seconds, while females in the same group require under 15 minutes 48 seconds. must fall between 18 and 30 (or 18–27 for ages 16–17), with exceptions up to 32 only if waist circumference does not exceed 94 cm for males or 80 cm for females, ensuring operational deployability. Medical assessments screen for conditions that could impair performance in policing duties, such as protective or investigative roles, with full physical and psychological fitness mandated. Security vetting constitutes a core barrier, necessitating a Check clearance alongside mandatory police vetting to handle sensitive information and enforce military law. Dual nationality or foreign connections may complicate or preclude clearance, reflecting the need for unquestioned loyalty in counter-intelligence functions. This process, combined with enhanced background checks, often extends timelines and disqualifies applicants with even minor historical issues, prioritizing mission reliability over volume. Recruitment faces challenges from the role's specialized demands and broader shortfalls, including a documented guard personnel deficit that has compelled higher-ranking officers to perform entry control duties at bases like as of November 2024. The rigorous multi-stage selection—encompassing aptitude, fitness, and —yields high attrition, exacerbated by misconceptions about the trade's scope beyond conventional policing to include combat-ready . RAF-wide policies, such as aspirational diversity targets for 40% and 20% ethnic minority representation by 2030, have proven unrealistic and led to unlawful discrimination against white male applicants in 2023, per an internal inquiry, further straining intake for security-critical roles like RAF Police. Overall personnel declines, with 1,140 more leavers than joiners in 2024/25, compound these issues by limiting training capacity and operational resilience.

Operations and Deployments

Domestic Security Operations

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) undertake domestic security operations primarily focused on protective security at RAF stations across the , safeguarding personnel, aircraft, equipment, and from threats including , , and . These operations form the foundational layer of RAF base defence, involving risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and the implementation of physical and procedural security measures to ensure operational continuity. RAFP personnel, numbering over 1,200 in total strength, lead multidisciplinary teams that include security specialists and collaborate with the for integrated at key sites such as . Key duties encompass gate guarding, perimeter patrols, vehicle and personnel searches, and convoy escorts within airspace and ground domains, often utilizing specialized units equipped for aviation security and cyber . Counter-intelligence elements within domestic operations prioritize detecting and neutralizing insider , domestic , and risks through gathering and proactive , as evidenced in performance metrics tracking terrorism-related priorities. RAFP officers provide advisory support to station commanders on and risk management, ensuring compliance with security protocols while investigating security breaches that could compromise air assets. In practice, these operations integrate with national resilience frameworks, where RAFP contributions support broader defence posture against hybrid threats, including cyber intrusions targeting RAF networks. For instance, protective squads maintain readiness for rapid response to unauthorized access attempts or intelligence-led disruptions, drawing on exercises with agencies to refine protocols. Empirical evaluations by independent inspectorates highlight the RAFP's emphasis on data-driven indicators for base , though challenges in for evolving threats like domestic persist.

International Deployments and Missions

The Royal Air Force Police maintain permanent detachments at overseas RAF stations, including in , in the , and , where they conduct base security, aviation protection, and duties in coordination with local joint service units. In , RAF Police elements within the Cyprus Joint Security Unit provide and support regional operations, including dog handling for and search roles. Similarly, in the , RAF Police personnel from the Joint Service Police Support Unit are sworn in as reserve officers of the Royal Falkland Islands Police, assisting with customs enforcement and alongside military security tasks; reservists have undertaken six-month rotations there. During Operation Telic in from 2003 to 2009, RAF Police detachments supported air operations at bases such as Airport, which came under RAF control in April 2003, by providing patrols, guarding prisoners of war, and conducting specialist searches with military working dogs like Buster, who completed multiple tours detecting explosives and . These units integrated into expeditionary air wings, with personnel such as Crook serving in early phases like Telic 1 for security and investigative roles. In in from 2002 to 2014, RAF Police secured key facilities like Camp Bastion, monitoring entry points, partnering with Afghan National Army units for joint patrols as early as 2011, and employing search dogs such as Hertz to detect improvised explosive devices and electronic devices in 2013. The force suffered losses, including Corporal Brent McCarthy and Lee Davies killed by small arms fire in Nad-e-Ali on 14 May 2012 while on patrol. RAF Police also contributed to , the , performing safety checks on evacuees and aircraft security. Reserve squadrons, such as No. 3 RAF Police (Reserve) Squadron, have augmented these efforts with deployments to , the , and the , marking their first operational commitments in these theaters since the early . Overall, international missions emphasize security, counter-terrorism investigations, and to enable RAF air operations in contested environments.

Recent Operations (2010s–2025)

In the early 2010s, the Royal Air Force Police maintained significant deployments to as part of , focusing on , investigative support, and base security amid the drawdown of UK forces. No 2 (Tactical) Police Squadron conducted operations there, returning to in May 2011 after providing policing services across forward operating bases. Elements of the RAF Police also integrated with joint provost units, such as 110 Provost Company, which included RAF Police personnel during tours ending around 2012, handling , detainee operations, and counter-intelligence in high-threat environments. These efforts supported the broader mission to stabilize Afghan security forces before the UK's combat withdrawal by late 2014. Following the end of major combat operations in , RAF Police shifted emphasis to the , contributing to base security and policing at in , a key hub for air operations under against ISIS in and from 2014 onward. Personnel provided close protection, VIP escort duties, and investigative capabilities to sustain RAF strike missions launched from regional bases, with ongoing rotations ensuring compliance with operational security protocols. In parallel, RAF Police dog handlers and search teams supported patrols and explosive ordnance detection in residual commitments during the , adapting to urban and desert terrains. The 2021 fall of prompted a rapid RAF Police deployment during , the UK's non-combatant evacuation operation, where specialized elements assisted in processing evacuees, maintaining order at International Airport, and countering immediate threats amid chaotic conditions from 14 to 26 August. This involved close coordination with joint forces to evacuate over 15,000 individuals, including British nationals and eligible Afghans, under encirclement. Into the 2020s, deployments persisted in the for during heightened tensions, with teams conducting ultra-marathon endurance tests in operational areas as late as March 2025 to build resilience for prolonged patrols and rapid response. These operations underscored the RAF Police's role in enabling persistent air while addressing evolving threats like and regional instability.

Effectiveness, Achievements, and Criticisms

Key Achievements and Contributions

The Royal Air Force Police has played a critical role in providing security and law enforcement support during major deployments, notably in where personnel contributed to base protection at Camp Bastion as part of the RAF Force Protection Wing, offering external assistance to frontline units from 2001 onward. Upon return from operations in 2012, RAF Police members received Operational Service Medals from Sir , recognizing their efforts in high-threat environments. In technological innovation, the RAF Police developed Project BLUEPRINT, a mobile app-based knowledge hub that enhances rapid situational response and operational decision-making, earning the Astra Award in for its transformative impact on service-wide efficiency. Specialized capabilities, such as military working dog handling, have garnered recognition, with dog handlers awarded the Military Working Dogs Prestige Trophy in 2024 for outstanding performance in detection and tasks. Additionally, the expansion of the Wilfred Bowes Trophy in 2024 honors exemplary investigative achievements, underscoring the branch's commitment to high standards in criminal and inquiries.

Operational Effectiveness and Metrics

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) employs performance indicators including quarterly detection rates, investigation outcomes, and conviction comparisons across priorities such as management and operations, though full alignment with objectives remains incomplete as of inspections. reviews over 75% of these indicators in quarterly meetings, with packs detailing reported incidents and investigation progress at bases, but lacks advanced and a unified oversight forum. With approximately 1,200 personnel, the RAFP's structure supports and , yet outdated IT systems like limit sophisticated metric tracking. In serious crime investigations, particularly and serious sexual offences (RASSO) and , RAFP demonstrates higher effectiveness than counterparts, achieving charge rates of at least 35% for RASSO and 40% for from 2017–2020, compared to 4% and 12% respectively in policing. This stems from lower caseloads enabling Specialist Investigation Branch focus, yielding investigation quality often comparable or superior to forces, though volumes remain low (e.g., 14 RASSO cases in 2020). Challenges include delayed forensic responses (hours for crime scene investigators, up to 100+ days for some ) and inconsistent victim support, with over 80% receiving initial leaflets but variable follow-up and DASH form completion in only 4 of 7 sampled cases. Initiatives like Project BLUEPRINT, implemented from 2022, enhance operational metrics by digitizing processes for faster responses, paperless administration, and improved victim outcomes through secure evidence handling, though specific quantitative improvements in response times or detection remain unreported. Oversight via the Service Police Complaints Commissioner noted 91 professional standards cases across service police in 2024, with 18% referred for review, including RAFP matters on investigations, underscoring ongoing accountability but no isolated effectiveness metrics for RAFP. Recommendations from inspections emphasize deploying analysts, standardizing evaluations, and bolstering to refine metrics and address gaps in and data systems.

Criticisms, Challenges, and Reforms

The Royal Air Force Police (RAFP) has faced scrutiny over recruitment practices influenced by diversity initiatives, with an independent inquiry determining that efforts to increase female and ethnic minority representation resulted in unlawful against white male applicants between and 2018. This included prioritizing candidates from underrepresented groups in competitive selection processes, which violated equality laws and contributed to perceptions of lowered standards amid broader RAF targets deemed unrealistic, such as 40% female and 20% ethnic minority personnel by 2030. Such policies, while aimed at addressing historical underrepresentation, have been criticized for prioritizing demographic quotas over merit, potentially undermining operational effectiveness in a force reliant on specialized skills. Security vulnerabilities have also drawn criticism, exemplified by a June 2025 incident at where Palestine Action activists breached perimeter defenses, accessed restricted areas, and vandalized with spray paint, prompting a government-mandated review of RAF base protections. The RAFP, responsible for airfield and installation security, was implicated in lapses that allowed unauthorized entry despite layered defenses, highlighting challenges in countering asymmetric threats from non-state actors amid resource constraints. Independent inspections, however, have generally rated RAFP investigative quality in serious cases like sexual assaults as comparable to or exceeding civilian standards, though broader RAF cultural issues in handling harassment—such as those uncovered in the —have indirectly questioned the efficacy of service police oversight. Key challenges include persistent personnel shortages, leading to measures such as deploying commissioned officers for routine guard duties at training bases like in 2024, a stopgap reflecting understaffing in protective security roles. Recruitment difficulties persist due to the demanding nature of RAFP duties—encompassing , counter-intelligence, and explosive ordnance disposal—compounded by competition from civilian policing and evolving threats like cyber and drone incursions, which strain a force of approximately 2,500 personnel. Retention is further pressured by high operational tempo and the need to balance military discipline with investigative independence. Reforms have focused on structural alignment and capability enhancement, including a 2021–2022 reorganization that integrated RAFP wings with RAF command groups and squadrons with operational stations to improve responsiveness and resource allocation. A 2019 independent review by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary endorsed RAFP leadership and management, recommending sustained investment in training without mandating overhaul, which informed subsequent enhancements in doctrines. Recent initiatives, such as the 2022 RAF Police "blueprint for success," emphasize in personnel development and threat adaptation under the Next Generation RAF framework, aiming to address shortages through targeted recruitment and technological integration. These changes reflect a proactive response to inspections affirming core competencies while tackling external pressures like budgetary limits and demands.

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