FORT BELVOIR, Virginia –
As military installations tighten security in response to heightened activity in the Middle East, Defense Logistics Agency security officials are reminding employees to be aware of force protection condition levels.
The Defense Department oversees FPCON, a terrorist threat system that describes the measures taken by installation commanders in response to various levels of terrorist threats against military facilities. The system is defensive in nature but proactive enough to help commanders protect DoD personnel, resources and interests. It is divided into five levels:
FPCON NORMAL: Applies when a general threat of terrorist attacks, hostile acts or other security threats exist. At a minimum, access control is conducted at all installations and facilities.
FPCON ALPHA: Applies to a non-specific threat of a terrorist or hostile act directed against DoD elements and personnel.
FPCON BRAVO: Applies when an increased or more predictable threat of terrorism exists and is directed against DoD elements and personnel.
FPCON CHARLIE: Applies when a terrorist or hostile incident occurs within the commander’s area of interest or intelligence is received indicating a hostile act, some form of terrorist action, or targeting of DoD elements, personnel or facilities.
FPCON DELTA: Applies when a terrorist attack or hostile act has occurred or is anticipated against specific installations or operating areas. Usually a localized condition.
The FPCON level is set by each major command using threat intelligence. In the United States, U.S. Northern Command sets the FPCON level. Installation commanders may raise the FPCON level for their installations in response to local threats and activity but can’t lower it below NORTHCOM’s direction.
A series of mandatory measures must be in place according to each FPCON level to assure effectiveness and can be as simple as 100% ID checks. Antiterrorism officers and security and law enforcement officials have the lion’s share of effort to ensure force protection these measures are accomplished, but employees are also vital in protecting DoD personnel and property. Here are a few actions employees can take to ensure a safer environment:
• Complete annual Level I Antiterrorism Training,
• Complete all other security training,
• Support the local, commander-directed Random Antiterrorism Measure Program,
• Practice good operations security,
• Stay informed of policies and procedures,
• Remain vigilant and maintain situational awareness off and on DoD property, and
• Be aware of local processes for reporting suspicious activity.
For more information on this or other security programs, call DLA Installation Operations at 571-767-1326 or email DLAForceProtection@dla.mil.