Step aboard with the Ministry of Defence Police Marine Unit

Our armed policing team safeguard Britain's naval assets from the unique stance point of the water, where our officers conduct round-the-clock security operations at Portsmouth, Devonport, and Clyde Naval Bases, protecting submarines and warships that form the backbone of the UK's defence capabilities.

As an MDP Marine Officer, you'll patrol strategic waters using specialised vessels equipped with advanced technology, from agile RHIBs to 15m patrol launches. You'll conduct armed escorts for high-value naval assets, including nuclear deterrents, ensuring their safe and unimpeded passage. Working alongside Royal Navy personnel and other agencies, you'll be at the forefront of maritime security, protecting some of the nation's most sensitive and important defence assets and infrastructure with purpose.

Role type 

Police Constable - Marine AFO CT

Permanent

Salary 

£30,806- £45,819

Hours 

40 hours

Locations 

Clyde Marine Unit – HMNB Clyde, Scotland

Devonport Marine Unit – HMNB Devonport, Devon

Portsmouth Marine Unit – HMNB Portsmouth, Hampshire

Key responsibilities

• Conduct armed maritime patrols to protect critical naval assets at HM Naval Bases.

• Detect, deter and respond to security threats toward Defence vessels and infrastructure

• Escort high-value naval ships including nuclear deterrents to ensure safe passage

• Operate as coxswain or crew on specialized police launches and RHIBs

• Deploy as part of firearms support teams during security incidents

• Enforce Dockyard Port Orders and respond to waterborne offenses

• Participate in maritime security exercises to maintain operational readiness

• Collaborate with Royal Navy, police agencies and harbour authorities

• Maintain accurate security documentation and incident records

Terms

Applicants must be able to pass both the marine medical and the swim test as a pre-requisite to an offer being made.

Training & Qualifications  

Candidates must be qualified (or be willing to become qualified) and undertake training in the following capabilities:

• Authorised Firearms Officer

• Waterborne Authorised Firearms Officer

• Tactical Passenger Training

• Diesel Engine course

• Radar Course

Royal Yachting Association (RYA)

• Sea Survival Training

• Helms Qualification

• Day Skipper Qualification

• Very High Frequency (VHF) Radio

• Power Boat Level 2

• Advanced Powerboat

Application

To request an application pack, please email: MDP-Resourcing-GMB@mod.gov.uk  

Closing date for submitting applications: 11:45pm on Sunday 27 July 2025.  

Assessment Day & Interview

An assessment day for those who pass the sift will be held at a location and date to be confirmed in September. This will include a suitability interview and fit test.

Medicals and swim tests for successful candidates will take place at locations and dates to be confirmed.

Any questions regarding the application process and information session should be directed to MDP-Resourcing-GMB@mod.gov.uk  

Further information can be requested from:

Clyde Marine Unit - James.Dalgleish583@mod.gov.uk or Iain.Irvine462@mod.gov.uk

Devonport Marine Unit - Shaun.Baskerville449@mod.gov.uk

Portsmouth Marine Unit - Paul.Alexander297@mod.gov.uk

Appointment

Successful candidates will be expected to take up appointment on our course commencing 23rd March 2026 where possible.

Eligibility

Serving police officers and police officers who have recently left policing (within 36 months) are invited to apply.

Applicants should be able to evidence a credible and relevant policing record.

Applicants must be a sole British National and British Passport holder and willing to undergo security vetting clearance to Security Clearance (SC) level. Applicants will also be subject to Police Vetting checks.

Applicants will be required to pass a swim test, pre-employment medical (which includes an assessment of their suitability to perform a marine role) and the Job-Related Fitness Standard (Physical Employment Standard) prior to employment.

Applicants must hold a UK manual car driving licence with no more than 6 live penalty points.  

Information regarding entry requirements can be requested by emailing MDP Recruitment Team: MDP-Resourcing-GMB@mod.gov.uk