The Red Hand Commando (RHC) is a small secretive Ulster loyalist paramilitary group in Northern Ireland, which is closely linked to the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF). Its aim was to combat Irish republicanism – particularly the Irish Republican Army (IRA) – and to maintain Northern Ireland's status as part of the United Kingdom.Red Hand Cammando is an inactive group formed 1972.The RHC waged a paramilitary campaign from 1972 until the loyalist ceasefires of 1994. Active1972 – present (declared ceasefire in October 1994, ended armed campaign in May 2007)Active1972 – present (declared ceasefire in October 1994, ended armed campaign in May 2007)