Close Protection

The specialized role of close protection (cp) is carried out by a number of UK military and Police forces.

Special Air Service (SAS)

The CRW wing of the SAS developed its close protection role in the late 60s/early 70s, as part of its emerging counter terrorist remit. The SAS have guarded high-ranking British politicians, including Prime Ministers, members of the Royal Family and foreign VIPs. In 1970 they protected Sultan Qaboos of Oman when his father was deposed. Many of the other units described in this section have, at some stage in their development, received advice and training from SAS instructors.
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Special Boat Service (SBS)

SBS Marines have been known to have provided bodyguards for high-ranking military personnel. An example of this, described in Damien Lewis' book, Bloody Heroes, is when an SBS team provided security for a US General who was visited Mazar Sharif, a city in Northern Afghanistan in 2001.

Royal Military Police close protection operative in Afghanistan. Until recently, RMP bodyguards frequently carried HK53 carbines but some are now toting C8 CQBs (as shown here).

Royal Military Police (RMP)

These special RMP units provide close protection for military and government VIPs, such as Generals and high ranking Ministers abroad. Initially trained by the SAS, the RMP now runs its own close protection courses. The RMP is part of the Provost Branch of the British Army's Adjutant General's Corps (AGC).

Royal Marines Police Troop (RMP Troop)

Part of the UK Landing Force Command Support Group of 3 Commando Brigade, the Royal Marines Police Troop, apart from fulfilling other military police roles, provides a close protection team for the Brigade Commander. RMP Troop bodyguards are Royal Marines Commandos who have undergone close protection training by RMP instructors. In addition to standard UK military weapons, RMP Troop use carbines such as C8 CQBs when on cp duties.

Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Department (RDPD)

A branch of the London Metropolitan Police, the RDPD comprises of:

Royal Protection Group (S014)
Diplomatic Protection Group (C06)
Palace of Westminster Division (CO7)