There will be more visible armed police officers on London's streets in the coming weeks as Operation Hercules launches today. 

The operation is part of the Metropolitan Police commitment to deliver extra armed officers to protect London against the threat of terrorism.

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has welcomed the Met's increase of 600 additional firearms officers to protect London against any attack. The first are now fully trained and operationally ready.

Met Commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, said: "Anyone who's been following events in Europe over the past few weeks will understand why we want to show our determination to protect the public. We are deadly serious about the protection that we are offering the people of London and we will never be complacent.

"That's why I’m increasing the visibility and the number of armed officers on London's streets, and demonstrating some of the range of tactics we already have to protect the public from all manner of threats.

"I want the public to know that we have substantial resources and a range of tactics that we can call on to protect them."

Sir Hogan-Howe called the officers "our heroes" and said they would run toward the danger.

He added: "Despite the fact they are carrying guns they are still police officers and I want the public to approach and talk to them, they are out on our streets to reassure and help the public.

"Equally important in how we protect our capital is the relationship that our mainly unarmed officers have built with communities over many years. Our communities are a vital source of information and if you have fears or concerns then we want to know."

Mr Khan, said: "The safety and security of all Londoners is my first priority, and our police and security services are working incredibly hard every day on our behalf.

"‎The threat level here in London has not changed, but it does remain at severe and especially in light of recent deadly attacks in Europe it is important we are prepared should the unthinkable happen.

"We will see more armed officers on our streets, but there is no reason to be alarmed. All of our police officers are playing their part and working closely with all of our communities to prevent the possibility of an attack."

Operation Hercules is not based on any specific intelligence but is a long-term response to best use the increasing number of armed officers the capital has to make London a "hostile environment" to terrorists.