The Gibraltar Defence Police (GDP) has recently concluded a rigorous five-week training program focused on firearms waterborne tactics and National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) unarmed tactics at sea.

A statement from British Forces Gibraltar follows below:

The training involved both police vessel coxswains and firearms officers, who were
rigorously tested under various challenging conditions, including differing sea states, vessel
speeds, and vessel types, ranging from police RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) to the complex task of boarding a tanker.

The training emphasised the ability of officers to board and take control of vessels traveling
at high speeds.

To compliment the waterborne exercises, the University of Gibraltar (UOG) played a crucial
role in the officers’ preparation, offering the use of their Maritime Fire Simulator.

This facility replicates the internal structure of a vessel, including ladders and stairways,
allowing officers to practice boarding procedures safely while carrying their full gear and weapons.

This land-based training has been instrumental in preparing officers for real-life maritime
conditions, such as adverse weather and rough seas, by removing the initial pressures of
working at sea.

This new skill set, which will require annual requalification, combines
practical drills with theoretical knowledge, ensuring that officers are fully equipped to handle complex maritime scenarios.

The specialised training has significantly enhanced the GDP’s maritime and land-based
capabilities, further improving the security and operational effectiveness of the Ministry of
Defence (MOD) Gibraltar.

The GDP extended a special thanks to Green Ports Gibraltar and Captain Nikolaos
Pantelidakis for their critical support in facilitating the training, as well as to the UOG for providing the facilities that ensured the officers were thoroughly prepared.

GDP Instructor, PC Kevin Jeffries said: “Despite the difficult and challenging conditions, the
officers performed exceptionally well with professionalism and resilience, showcasing their increased operational readiness for future tasks. A job very well done by the officers, and they should be commended for it.”