INFORCE 2026: Tactical Precision and the Frontline of Defense

The inaugural edition of INFORCE, held at Exponor, established a new focal point for Defense, Security, and Civil Protection. This gallery shifts the lens toward the tactical and operational capabilities of the Portuguese Armed Forces and Security Services. Documenting the presence of the Portuguese Air Force, Navy, GNR (National Republican Guard), and the National Maritime Authority, the objective was to capture the readiness and specialized resources, such as the Air Force's OPSAS and the Navy's CEOV, deployed in high-risk contexts.

A central element of this photographic essay is the commanding presence of the K9 (Cinotechnic) units. Photographing these sequences requires anticipating the exact moment the unbreakable bond between the military handler and the dog translates into action.

The Portuguese Air Force brought a masterclass in precision and instinct. From foundational obedience to advanced Guard and Patrol, the visual narrative captures a complex tactical simulation: a suspect resisting a search in a military area, the immediate interception by the patrol dog, and the subsequent explosive detection. It is a raw display of an incredibly versatile asset responding flawlessly to multiple threats.

Similarly, the GNR’s Porto K9 Section provided a comprehensive display of adaptability, ranging from humanitarian search and rescue to criminal repression. The lens followed the rapid escalation of a public order scenario—intercepting a suspect vehicle, neutralizing an armed threat, and deploying specialized detection dogs for narcotics, explosives, and contraband. One of the most compelling moments to document was the olfactory precision test within a crowd, highlighting a crucial tactical skill for operations in densely populated environments.

More than mere event coverage, these records are a study of discipline, continuous preparation, and the sharp instincts required to secure and protect.