The Star Cops return in 2026 for a new six-part story dealing with Earth’s scarce resources. 

The International Space Police Force, colloquially known as the “Star Cops”, first appeared on television in 1987. While the show only lasted for one series on screen, it won a small legion of fans. They warmed to the clever mix of science fiction and crime drama, as created by writer Chris Boucher (Doctor Who, Blakes’ 7).

Revived on audio by Big Finish Productions in 2018, the show has gone from strength to strength. Across four series, they’ve dealt with a terrorist threat, been to Mars, fought organised crime and threats closer to home.

Now, audio producers Big Finish have confirmed a fifth series, Star Cops: Conflict, for release in 2026.

Here’s what we know about Star Cops: Conflict

Earth’s mineral resources are becoming scarce, causing a rise in global tensions. Two space missions – a project to recover mineral resources from the asteroid belt, and a missile platform placed in Near Earth Orbit – result in a further escalation, and the risk of war. The Star Cops’ investigations bring them into the forefront of the crisis. Their actions may affect the future of everyone on the planet.

The audio dramas star three original cast members – David Calder’s Commander Nathan Spring, Trevor Cooper as Inspector Colin Devis and Linda Newton as Chief Superintendent Pal Kenzy. Original characters Inspector Paul Bailey (Philip Olivier) and Inspector Alice Okoro (Lynsey Murrell) complete the team.

Star Cops: Conflict comes from writers Andrew Smith, Georgina Cook, Roland Moore and Mark Wright.

Producer Emma Haigh said:

“I’m always thrilled to see a new Star Cops script arrive in my inbox and these new stories brought just as much excitement as ever.

“In these six fresh stories, the Star Cops are tested to their limits, both physically and mentally, with huge professional and personal conflicts, against the backdrop of a global crisis. Andrew Smith and our team of writers – Roland Moore, Mark Wright and Georgia Cook – take us on a journey for which it’s worth flying to the moon and back.”

The six-part series is to be released in two batches: monthly from February – April, and then again from September – November 2026. It’s available to order now on download to own from Big Finish.