Counter-terrorism response tested on Dorset ferry
Emergency teams prepare for potential terror incidents during large-scale drill
Last updated 16th Jan 2026
Emergency services and counter-terrorism units have completed a major training exercise in Dorset, mimicking their coordinated response to a terrorism threat on a cross-channel ferry.
The event took place at the Port of Poole on 14th and 15th January 2026, bringing together multiple local and national agencies to assess specialist capabilities. The operation was a collaboration between Counter Terrorism Policing South West and Counter Terrorism Policing South East, part of the national Counter Terrorism Policing network.
Those involved included ambulance teams, fire services, and Brittany Ferries, with hundreds of participants working to test response strategies both onshore and offshore.
Regional Assistant Chief Constable Andy Hill from Counter Terrorism Policing South West said the drills were vital for preparedness: “Exercises like this take place regularly across all emergency services and are a crucial way of testing the response that would be required in the event of a major incident such as a terrorist attack.
“Not only do exercises help us all understand each other’s roles, they also provide an opportunity to identify learning, which can then be adopted to strengthen our response and ensure we provide the best possible protection to our communities.”
Dorset Police hosted the exercise with Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne adding: “This type of training is an integral part of policing and ensures we deliver an immediate and robust response to a major incident with our partners. Simply put, this is about protecting the public with a strong and dynamic response that helps us to protect life.”
Poole Harbour Commissioners supported the programme alongside ferry operator Brittany Ferries, whose Director for UK Ports, Jo Bussell, emphasised their ongoing commitment to safety: “Taking part in training exercises supports our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our passengers and crew members.”
The UK’s terrorism threat level currently stands at substantial. Authorities remind the public that vigilance is crucial, encouraging people to report unusual activity. Any concerns can be raised via gov.uk/ACT, the Anti-Terrorism Hotline at 0800 789 321, or local police forces by calling 101 or 999 in emergencies.