Hampshire Police Run Daring Ferry Hijack Drill Ahead of Isle of Wight Festival
Hampshire police staged a dramatic simulated hijacking of a ferry in the Solent on Saturday. The exercise involved more than 40 officers plus fire, ambulance, and coastguard services, prepping for a potential terror attack.
Armed Officers Storm Ferry in Real-Life Terror Scenario
The intense drill focused on terrorists hijacking the Isle of Wight ferry, taking hostages to execute an attack. Officers, equipped with rifles, stormed the ferry mid-journey between portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth and Fishbourne. Fast response boats sped alongside, with armed officers boarding the vehicle deck amid the 45-minute voyage.
A Hampshire Police source said, “The scenario involved a group of terrorists hijacking the passenger ferry and kidnapping a number of hostages in order to carry out a terrorist attack. It was designed to test the response and command and control protocols of emergency services in dealing with this type of situation in a marine environment, in collaboration with maritime partners.”
No Specific Threat – Just Staying Sharp for a Critical Week
The exercise wasn’t sparked by any concrete intelligence but came after an independent review calling for tighter security on the Solent. It’s timely, as over 40,000 music fans are expected on the Isle of Wight next week for the 2022 Festival.
With Britain’s terrorism threat level still at “SUBSTANTIAL” – meaning an attack is “likely” – Hampshire’s tough training sends a clear message: they’re ready for whatever comes.
Exclusive Footage Reveals Armed Drill in Action
Exclusive images and video show armed police officers methodically boarding the ferry, rifles drawn, ready to tackle the hostage crisis scenario. The exercise highlights the coordinated effort between multiple emergency teams to keep the Solent safe.
Hampshire Police have been contacted for further comment.
