Project Servator: 9 Years of Protecting Defence

This month, the Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) celebrates 9 years of Project Servator, a counter terrorism policing tactic protecting some of the UK's most important Defence sites.

"Nine years ago, we introduced Project Servator to the Ministry of Defence Police, and since then it has become fundamental to how we protect Defence capabilities, assets and communities we serve. By working together with partners and the public, we've created a strong network of vigilance that makes it difficult for criminals and terrorists to operate," says Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Johnson, Ministry of Defence Police.

What is Project Servator?

Project Servator, meaning 'watcher' or 'observer' in Latin, but it is more than just that.

It's a policing tactic designed to disrupt a range of criminal activity, including terrorism, while providing a reassuring presence for the public.

Our officers are specially trained to spot tell-tale signs that someone may be carrying out hostile reconnaissance – that’s the information gathering that may help them plan or prepare to commit a crime. They work across key locations including the AWE sites in Berkshire, Defence HQ in Whitehall, BAE Systems at Barrow-in-Furness and naval ports in Clyde, Devonport, and Portsmouth.

How Does it Work?

"Each Project Servator deployment is unique by design. Our officers could be anywhere, at any time, using a range of tactics and resources to keep our sites and the public safe. Even after nine years, our core principle remains the same – unpredictability combined with community vigilance creates an environment that prevent criminals from being able to carry out their plans" explains Sergeant Shannon, MDP's National Coordinator for Project Servator.

Our Project Servator deployments are unpredictable but highly visible and are made up a range of police resources. During these deployments, you will see uniformed and plain-clothes officers, who regularly work alongside police dogs and their handlers, armed officers and mounted units. We are often supported by CCTV operators and security staff and make use of technology like CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR).

Working Together to Keep Defence Safe

The strength of Project Servator lies in partnership. Police, security partners, local businesses, and the public all work together to make the UK a difficult place for criminals and terrorists to operate.

Our officers regularly engage with local communities, businesses, and those around Defence sites. You'll often see them talking to people, visiting local business and travel hubs, to provide reassurance to the public and raise awareness of the role the community can play in preventing crime.

"After nine years, the relationships we've built with communities around Defence sites are stronger than ever. Every conversation, every deployment, and every report from the public strengthens our network of vigilance. Together, we've proven that we've got it covered," concludes Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Johnson.

Nine Years of Results

Project Servator has been successful in gathering intelligence across the UK to support in preventing acts of terror. Our work has resulted in arrests for a multitude of offences and is responsible for removing illegal firearms, knives and drugs from the streets.

Intelligence is essential to our Project Servator deployments. Our officers don't just patrol - they observe, engage, and gather critical information that feeds into the national security picture. Combined with reports from the public and our partner agencies, this intelligence helps us stay one step ahead of those who wish to cause harm” says DCI Renton, Ministry of Defence Police.

How You Can Help

Although Project Servator deployments are different to normal police operations, if you see one in your area, there's nothing to worry about. Officers will be happy to explain what they are doing and answer any questions you have.

Remember, you have a vital role to play. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and report it. Suspicious activity is anything that seems out of place, unusual or doesn't fit in with day-to-day life, such as an unattended item or someone acting suspiciously.

You can:

Speak to any police officer or security staff member
Call MDP on 0300 1232 101
In an emergency, always call 999
Report in confidence at gov.uk/ACT

Every year thousands of reports from the public help police tackle the terrorist threat. Reporting won't ruin lives, but it could save them.

Follow #ProjectServator and the MDP on:

Facebook: @Ministry of Defence Police
Instagram: @ministryofdefence_police
LinkedIn: @MODPolice