The British Military had been developing weapons to deal with any uberhuman threat since the Second World War, and although there was a long list of prototypes, only a handful ever made it into production. Most of the prototypes proved to be too ungainly, too erratic or too inept. During the 1960s the Military developed the Power Harness, which was further developed over the following two decades.

Knightwatch had been active since the Second World War too, but it had always been a civilian organisation. The Military and the British Government wanted more influence on their national heroes, so when the Harness was fully developed in 1986, it was suggested that the test subject, Freddy Harker, be admitted into the team as Harness.

While at first the Knightwatch was cynical of any government interference, Harker proved himself invaluable on many occasions, saving the lives of his team mates as well as providing clear insights into the motivations of their enemies. Despite his military background, Harker was welcomed into the fold.

As team members began to drop off, Harker managed to exert his influence on the direction of the team, so that in 1990 Knightwatch actually became an affiliate of the British Army. All new members were required to possess a basic military training, while they also received the extensive support and resources of Her Majesty's Armed Forces. Knightwatch became a world leader in uberhuman security.

Harker became the leader of Knightwatch in 1992, changed his name to Brigadier, and has remained so ever since, although he and his family took a year's sabbatical in 2000.

Harker is a soldier first and foremost, believing the safety of his country is the highest priority. Since meeting his wife Faye, this outlook has barely wavered, and after the birth of his twin daughters Harker remained fervently a military man. Some would say that he is heartless and cold, but those who know him, as a friend, a husband and a father; know that he is a generous man with a self-effacing sense of humour and a love of the outdoors.

He is very proud, however, regardless of his self-effacing mannerisms and has a tendency to become stubborn and even aggressive if he is made to appear weak or foolish. If it's not on his terms, it's not on.

"There's a plan, and we stick to it."

The Brigadier has access to one of Britain's finest inventions, the Power Harness, which is basically a powerful force field generator. He complements the harness with a utility belt and his military experience and training. Although he is reluctant to kill, the Brigadier certainly has the capacity and the history to do so.

The Brigadier wears an armoured black Kevlar bodysuit with silver-grey pads on his shoulders and silver-grey gloves and boots. He wears goggles to conceal his identity as well as to provide nightvision and protection from flares and flash attacks. The Power Harness straps around the wearer in an X pattern, the centre of which is seemingly a gemstone with a glowing core. The glowing gem is replicated on his utility belt which conceals an array of equipment.

Out of costume, Fred Harker is a military man and is rarely seen out of his army fatigues or heavy woollen jumpers and canvas trousers. When he is forced to wear formal wear he looks decidedly ill at ease in it.