Force Research Unit
The Force Research Unit (FRU) was a covert military intelligence unit of the British Army's Intelligence Corps. It was established in 1982 during the Troubles to obtain intelligence from terrorist organisations in Northern Ireland by recruiting and running agents and informants. From 1987 to 1991, it was commanded by Gordon Kerr.
| Force Research Unit | |
|---|---|
| Active | 1982–2007 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Branch | British Army |
| Type | Military intelligence unit |
| Role | Agent handling Black operation Clandestine human intelligence Clandestine operation Close-quarters combat Counterinsurgency Counterintelligence Countersurveillance Counterterrorism Covert operation Direct action Espionage HUMINT Intelligence assessment ISTAR Military intelligence Raiding Special operations Special reconnaissance Surveillance |
| Part of | Intelligence Corps |
| Engagements | Operation Banner (The Troubles) |
It worked alongside existing intelligence agencies including the Special Branch of the Royal Ulster Constabulary and MI5. In 1988, the All-Source Intelligence Cell was formed to improve the sharing of intelligence between the FRU, Special Branch and MI5.
The FRU was renamed to the Joint Support Group (JSG) following the Stevens Inquiries into allegations of collusion between the security forces and Protestant paramilitary groups. The FRU was found to have colluded with loyalist paramilitaries by the Stevens Inquiries. This has been confirmed by some former members of the unit.