Find out what it takes to become a CTSFO police officer – the UK’s most highly-trained and trusted firearms specialists. This guide covers what these elite professionals do, the skills needed and the career path that can lead you to these roles.
Counter Terrorist Specialist Firearms Officers (CTSFOs) represent the most elite tier of armed policing in the UK. Trained to respond to the highest-level threats to national security, including terrorism and major firearms incidents, CTSFOs operate at the forefront of law enforcement.
As public awareness of national security challenges increases, so too does recognition of the specialist roles working behind the scenes to keep the public safe in the most dangerous and unpredictable scenarios. These skilled officers are increasingly visible during public operations and high-risk incidents, prompting growing interest in this as a way for firearms officers to progress their career. So what does being a CTSFO involve and how can police officers join their ranks?
Counter Terrorist Specialist Firearms Officers belong to the UK’s most advanced armed policing units. These officers are specially trained to deal with the highest-level threats, including terrorism, hostage situations and complex armed incidents.
The role was formally introduced ahead of the 2012 London Olympics to strengthen the UK’s firearms response to terrorism. Since then, CTSFO teams have been established across the country as part of a national policing network.
These personnel differ from standard Authorised Firearms Officers (AFOs) through their advanced tactics, specialist equipment and ability to operate in highly dynamic environments. They are trained to a higher standard and are capable of conducting complex counter-terror operations.
Officers are often deployed during major incidents and high-risk operations. They regularly work alongside other specialist units, intelligence services and, in some cases, military teams as part of a coordinated national response.
CTSFOs carry out some of the most complex and high-risk tasks in modern policing. Their work involves rapid response to serious threats, precision tactics and liaising closely with other agencies during major incidents. Key responsibilities include:
Due to the sensitive and demanding nature of the role, CTSFO teams only accept officers with proven operational performance, strong ethical standards and the ability to cope with intense physical and psychological pressure. The tough selection process reflects the extreme demands of the job.
Becoming a CTSFO is only open to police officers who have already qualified as AFOs. To be accepted onto the training course, candidates must demonstrate operational excellence, discipline and the ability to meet the demands of an elite unit, as well as experience and proficiency in other firearms units.
The typical route to becoming a CTSFO is:
Eligibility depends on proven operational ability, discipline and readiness to meet the unit’s high standards. Competition is fierce, with limited places and strong interest from within firearms teams across the UK. Only a small number of officers are selected, reflecting the elite nature of the role and the demands placed on those who serve.
Selection for CTSFO roles is one of the most demanding processes in UK policing. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional fitness, firearms accuracy, teamwork, resilience and decision-making under pressure. Forces look for individuals with a proven operational record, strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm and focused in volatile, high-risk situations.
The CTSFO training programme is intensive and physically challenging. Lasting several weeks, it includes advanced firearms drills, live-fire exercises, dynamic entry techniques, and specialist tactics for counter-terror operations. Officers also receive training in fast-roping, confined space entry and working in complex urban environments.
Much of the training is designed to simulate real-world scenarios under extreme pressure. Teamwork, coordination and tactical discipline are emphasised throughout. CTSFOs also regularly take part in joint exercises with military and intelligence partners, helping ensure seamless coordination during live operations. Ongoing refresher training and requalification are required to maintain operational readiness.
Due to the highly sensitive nature of CTSFO operations, officers must undergo extensive security vetting. Most roles require Security Check (SC), Enhanced Security Check (eSC) or Developed Vetting (DV) clearance, depending on operational requirements. The process examines a candidate’s personal, financial and professional history in detail.
A clean, trustworthy record, both on and off duty, is essential. Investigators look for individuals who demonstrate reliability, discretion and high ethical standards at all times, including their spending habits, social media history and those of close family.
CTSFOs represent the pinnacle of UK armed policing. Because of this, only those with exceptional skill, discipline and personal integrity are selected to join this elite unit and are trusted to operate at the highest level. However, those who are selected can look forward to a challenging, varied and meaningful career.
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