On October 16, our students had the opportunity to visit the Intervention Unit (UI) of the National Republican Guard (GNR), located in Pontinha, in an experience that allowed them to observe closely some of the most specialized operational capabilities of this security force.

Throughout the visit, students were able to gain first‑hand insight into the different areas of expertise of the Intervention Unit, learning more about its mission, organizational structure, and the role it plays in maintaining public security and order.

After an institutional presentation on the Unit’s competencies and fields of action, participants had the opportunity to explore various tools and equipment used by the GNR in the performance of its duties. These included specialized public‑order vehicles, surveillance and reconnaissance drones, protective shields, different types of weaponry, and canine teams — which drew particular interest from the students.

The visit was a moment of significant academic and professional enrichment, offering direct contact with the operational reality of the GNR and its personnel, as well as a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with security missions and the protection of citizens.

Finally, this initiative also represented an excellent opportunity to strengthen and deepen the institutional relationship between the Institute of Political Studies of the Catholic University of Portugal and the GNR Intervention Unit, fostering dialogue and collaboration with an entity of recognized relevance in the national security landscape.