What is the role of contact and cover officers in a boarding operation?

The role of contact and cover officers during a boarding operation is to effectively divide responsibilities during engagement with a subject. This division of roles enhances the safety and efficiency of the operation. The contact officer engages directly with the subject, addressing any questions and controlling the interaction, while the cover officer maintains situational awareness and provides support from a safe distance. This structure allows for a more organized and strategic approach to boarding scenarios, ensuring that both officers can respond appropriately to any changes in the situation, thereby enhancing the safety of both the officers and the individuals they are engaging with.

In such operations, having clear roles defined minimizes confusion and allows for a coordinated response, which is essential in high-stress environments.