Countering State Threats

Counter Terrorism Policing is the lead law enforcement organisation for a range of national security threats, much broader than our name suggests. As a nation, the threats we currently face are diversifying, and we are seeing increasing demand linked to our other missions, most notably in Countering State Threats and War Crimes. At the moment, more than 20% of Counter Terrorism Policing casework is focused on our missions outside terrorism.

Counter Terrorism Policing’s work with state threats

Counter Terrorism Policing’s work to tackle state-sponsored activity is growing fast.

Since events in Salisbury in 2018, we have been building our capabilities, with the creation of a team dedicated to state threats investigations. Counter Terrorism Policing are at the forefront of efforts to tackle what are increasingly aggressive threats.

From fast-paced investigations into a variety of threats, with a range of targets,  to ensuring ongoing protective security advice and support, our response  is varied and robust.  Our work with frontline officers and local forces is essential to identifying and tackling the threats posed by states in the UK.

What are state threats?

State threats encompass actions by foreign governments that, while falling short of direct armed conflict, go beyond typical statecraft and aim to harm or threaten the safety or interests of a nation. These threats can involve a wide range of activities, which can be classed under the broader term of transnational repression and include:

• Assassinations and physical attacks: Targeting individuals or locations. Targets may include, but are not limited to prominent opponents of a regime, such as dissidents, or even journalists.
• Cyberattacks: Disrupting critical infrastructure, stealing sensitive data, or spreading disinformation.
• Financial Influence: Using financial institutions to support hostile activities, such as terrorism or corruption.
• Political Manipulation: Attempting to influence elections, sow discord, or destabilise governments.
• Political pressure or threats to stifle opposition or debate about a state.
• Propaganda and Disinformation: Using online platforms to spread false information or manipulate public opinion.
• Espionage: Gathering intelligence for military or economic advantage.

Identifying and countering state threats can be difficult because:

• They often occur covertly or are disguised as legitimate activities.
• Attribution can be challenging, making it difficult to determine who is responsible.
• The tactics and tools used by state actors are constantly evolving, requiring ongoing adaptation and research.

What work does Counter Terrorism Policing do in countering state threats?

Counter Terrorism Policing plays a crucial role in countering state threats by working with intelligence agencies, protecting public infrastructure, and disrupting hostile activity. 

We have a growing role in countering state threats, which builds on a long history of counter-espionage and counter-intelligence police work.

This role requires a different approach to that of our counter terrorism response, in that the state actors have high levels of capability, requiring us to maintain a higher operational edge. There has been a step change in demand, with the government recognising an increasing role for law enforcement in protecting the UK’s national security. Our mission is to detect, deter and disrupt the intentions and capabilities of state actors operating in the UK.