Introduction

A 2003 documentary about the British Army’s military police force.

Outline

February 2003, and the roads of Kuwait thundered to the roar of heavy armour heading northwards during the final stages of Operation Telic, the invasion of Iraq.

Centuries of experience in desert fighting taught the army that however rough it gets, armies can always operate effectively – provided the lines of communication run smoothly. While the Royal Military Police kept the traffic flowing smoothly, they were also busy preparing the desert routes for the final assault.

From their Headquarters in Chichester, the RMP sent specialists to deal with every eventuality: the Special Investigation Branch to record war crimes and the Military Provost Staff from the “Glasshouse” in Colchester to handle Prisoners of War.

Desert life was hard for everyone, blazing heat and sand which blows into every crevice – a few minutes spent under the Solar Shower is the only comfort. Every Redcap had one threat in mind – the possibility of an enemy air strike involving chemical or nuclear weapons. Even when completing mine clearance tasks, a gas attack alert sends everyone under cover. The Commanders reveal their plans for the Royal Military Police once they arrive in Iraq, but first the war must be fought.

On March 19th 2003 the United States Air Force began the campaign. The invasion of Iraq was underway.

The Real Redcaps Series

You can find a full index and overview of The Real Redcaps here.

Production & Filming Details

• Presenter(s): Robson Green.
• Release Date: 19 August 2003.
• Running Time: 60 minutes.
• Country: UK.
• Language: English.