Bermuda boat force.

The week long operation will test the ability of several Island agencies to work together on a joint maritime operation. And it will assist the Bermuda Regiment in assessing how their boat troop can take on other tasks.

Running from October 2 to 10, the Regiment will join forces with Marine Police, Customs, Marine and Ports, and Agriculture and Fisheries.

Teams will take part in several projects, which will help officers evaluate how soldiers can be used in different roles to normal army duties.

The move is part of plans to diversify the role of the 500-strong force and in particular develop a special boat task force.

Previously, Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Patrick Outerbridge revealed how an expanded boat troop with better equipment could be utilised for coastguard duties, marine policing, environmental control and pollution incidents.

Yesterday, Regiment spokesman Steven Caton said: "This exercise is intended to provide a workable basis to test the need and effectiveness of a joint maritime venture.

"The results may be relevant in the upcoming review of the Regiment.'' During the operation, Customs officials will lead a ship search, Fisheries officers will conduct patrols and there will also be an emergency response to an oil spill.

There will also be work with Marine Police, including search and rescue and interdiction.

The final stages of the course will see all parties involved in tests dictated by the Coordinator of Emergency Services.

Inspector Mark Bothello, of the Marine Police, said the exercise was an excellent opportunity to share their knowledge with the Regiment, which could identify areas where the Regiment could assist Police in the future.

A Police spokesman warned marine operators of increased activity on the water and asked the public not to interfere with the exercise.