London is set to see 600 more armed police patrolling its streets to protect the capital from terrorism.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe announced on Wednesday (August 3) that 600 additional firearms officers will be deployed as part of Operation Hercules.

The operation is part of the Met's commitment to delivering extra armed officers to protect London against the threat of terrorism.

Sir Hogan-Howe recently said that it is a case of "when not if" terrorists strike again, while Scotland Yard Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley has told members of the public to "run as far as possible" if terrorists hit .

The Mayor has welcomed the Commissioner's increase of 600 additional firearms officers to protect London against any attack, with the first officers now being fully trained and operationally ready.

Sadiq 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 first are ready to be deployed to the streets
New firearms officers ready to patrol the streets of London

"‎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."

Commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, added: "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."