The two-storey purpose-built complex, with a floor area of 6,655 square metres, provides a variety of simulated Hong Kong locations, such as public housing flats and MTR train carriages, for tactical training.

Commissioner Tsang Yam-pui and Director of Architectural Services Pau Shiu-hung officiated at a grand opening ceremony on November 16.

Officials participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the opening of TTC

"This magnificent complex, the first of its kind in the world, symbolises our Force's commitment to the introduction of new technologies as well as our continuing drive towards enhanced professionalism and greater efficiency," stated Mr Tsang.

"I would like to thank Security Bureau for their willing support of this project. I also wish to express my gratitude for the efforts of Architectural Services Department and Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, as well as our Planning and Development Branch and Communications Branch, who have worked together to ensure our specific requirements have been met."

Following the unveiling of the TTC plaque at the entrance to the new complex, Mr Tsang and Mr Pau joined Director of Personnel and Training Spencer Foo Tsun-kong, Police Training School Commandant Paul Hung Hak-wai and Chief Superintendent of Planning and Development Branch Barbara Willison in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Mr Tsang and other guests then toured the new TTC to observe its advanced facilities and equipment. A number of tactical training demonstrations were also staged.

PTS Chief Drill and Musketry Inspector Cliff Chow Kwok-kee said: "This is a fantastic new complex which will definitely enhance tactical training not only for PTS trainees but all other Force members who utilise it. We have longed for a facility of this world-class standard for many years."

Built on the northern side of the PTS Hard Ground Pitch, the TTC features replicas of typical Hong Kong streets and buildings, observation walkways and CCTV facilities, allowing trainers to monitor and record trainees' performance prior to both parties reviewing this step-by-step. Briefing and debriefing areas, classrooms and staff offices are also included.

The TTC provides a realistic environment for multi-faceted training including the tactical approach to the use of force and the firearms which officers carry. Trainees will also be taught the tactics for dealing with armed or dangerous individuals and suspects in streets, buildings or vehicles.

The TTC is divided into five major training zones: commercial area, residential area, Mass Transit Railway station, urban park area and staircase tower. These zones feature mock shops, stalls, a restaurant, a bank, residential units, MTR platform and train compartments, staircases of a public housing estate, a playground and lift lobbies.

Wireless-controlled pop-up targets and adjustable lighting to simulate day and night conditions are also available.With movable partitions, the complex can be further compartmentalised into different training areas to meet various training objectives.

PTS Commandant Paul Hung Hak-wai said that the TTC, one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the world, would greatly enhance officers' training.

"The new training complex was needed because the previous facilities were inadequate. If we wanted to conduct an exercise in a certain scenario, say a bank or an MTR station, it was impossible to find a suitable location which could provide a realistic environment.

"Our staff could only take simple props onto modified squash courts or soccer fields. There were space constraints and it affected realism and trainees' concentration during tactical training because they had to imagine the scenario while practising tactical techniques," said Mr Hung.

"With the new facility, our trainees can practise various tactics in different mock scenarios regardless of the weather."

He also stressed that proper tactical training, which included approaching suspects, application of resistance control techniques, apprehending criminals, finding suitable cover and engaging targets with marking ammunition, was essential for all officers.

"Tactical training enhances officers' capabilities to be in control in various situations and to minimise injuries. On average, PTS provides at least 50,000 hours of tactical training each year to all new recruits and attendees of continuation and promotion courses. A purpose-built training facility was thus needed to meet the great demand," stated Mr Hung.

"The staff of the PTS, Planning and Development Branch, Weapons Training Division and Architectural Services Department have put in a lot of effort since construction of the TTC commenced in late 1999 and it is a pleasing result to all to see it finally become a reality," added Mr Hung.

After the visit, CP expressed his satisfaction about the state-of-the-art facilities in the Tactical Training Complex. He said that the demonstrations staged in the complex was a testimony to the Force's determination to move ahead with time and hoped that the Force would have more sophisticated training facilities.