Further details of the military’s contribution to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games were announced last by the Ministry of Defence, Vigilance can reveal.
More than 2,000 military personnel from all three Services have been tasked to assist with venue security as well as undertaking a number of ceremonial roles - including a fly-past by the Red Arrows at the opening of The Games and the provision of 72 flag bearers for medal ceremonies.
Lieutenant General Sir Nicholas Carter, the Standing Joint Commander (United Kingdom), said:
“The Armed Forces have always provided support to the civilian authorities at home in the UK whenever it is needed. We are ready to assist in whatever contingencies may arise and have done so during the 2012 Olympics and more recently during the floods crisis. We are extremely proud to be able to provide support to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games as part of a task that reflects the flexibility, capability and adaptability of our Armed Forces.”
The Armed Forces will provide specialist niche capabilities such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) support and air security measures similar to those seen during the London 2012 Olympics.
Overall, around 900 personnel are being provided by the Army with just under 300 each from the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. A further 900 personnel are held in reserve should they be required.
As announced to Parliament in April, it is expected that hundreds of Reserves will take part.
The support is being provided at the request of Police Scotland and has been approved by the Home Office through the established process of Military Aid to the Civil Power (MACP) principles.
Throughout the Games, the Armed Forces will maintain their standing commitments including the mission in Afghanistan and operational tasks worldwide.
The UK Government will fully fund this military contribution with no costs being incurred by Police Scotland. This is part of our shared commitment to a safe and secure Games.