JOU Firearms
JOU Firearms provides the force's specialist armed-policing capability for incidents and operations that require appropriately trained and authorised officers. It includes armed response, firearms command and tactical advice, specialist protection, training and the management of firearms equipment.
How we work
Firearms commanders decide how authorised resources should be used in accordance with the applicable law and professional standards. Armed Response Units may assist with spontaneous incidents or planned operations. Training and equipment teams maintain qualifications, competence and readiness. Operational decisions remain subject to command oversight and review.
Reporting and enquiries
JOU Firearms is an operational command, not the public firearms-licensing service. Applications and certificate enquiries belong to the Firearms Licensing Department.
Related services
Teams and units
- Armed Response Vehicle Department (ARVD) Collaborated operational department
- Firearms Command and Tactical Advice Operational command and advisory function
- Protection Group Specialist operational unit
- Firearms Training Department Training department
- JOU Armoury and Weapons Support Specialist technical support function
- SECTU Specialist firearms unit
- Hostage and Crisis Negotiator Unit Specialist operational unit