Force protection condition

The 22nd Security Forces Squadron of McConnell AFB is taking all precautions to prevent the base from all possible terrorist activity during Force Protection Delta 010911-F-PM628-006

Force Protection Condition (FPCON) is a system used by the United States military and various other government and defense agencies to indicate the level of terrorist or other security threats to military facilities and operations. The system is designed to increase agency and military unit readiness and response to various levels of threat, and it prescribes a series of graduated protective measures that can be implemented by commanders at military bases or other sensitive installations. The FPCON system is an essential aspect of military force protection strategies, which aim to prevent or mitigate hostile actions against military personnel, resources, facilities, and critical information.

Levels of FPCON

The FPCON system consists of five levels of increasing security measures:

• FPCON Normal indicates a general global threat of possible terrorist activity exists, but warrants only a routine security posture.
• FPCON Alpha suggests that there is a small and general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel and facilities, the nature and extent of which are unpredictable. At this level, security measures are increased somewhat but are not overly intrusive.
• FPCON Bravo is declared when there is an increased or more predictable threat of terrorist activity. The measures taken in this condition are more comprehensive and may affect the daily routine of personnel.
• FPCON Charlie indicates an incident has occurred or intelligence has been received suggesting some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely. Protective measures taken by commanders are substantial, affecting the operation of the installation significantly.
• FPCON Delta is set when a terrorist attack has occurred, or intelligence indicates imminent terrorist action against a specific location. FPCON Delta measures are the most stringent and are often only sustainable for short periods due to their significant impact on normal operations.

Implementation

The decision to change the FPCON level is made by commanders at various levels, depending on the scope and nature of the threat. These decisions are based on intelligence reports, analysis of local security trends, and advice from security and intelligence agencies. The implementation of FPCON measures involves a wide range of actions, including but not limited to, increased physical security, personnel identification checks, vehicle inspections, limiting access to sensitive areas, and the dissemination of threat information to personnel.

Challenges and Considerations

Implementing FPCON measures can present challenges, particularly regarding balancing security needs with the need to maintain normal operations and minimize disruption. There is also the risk of complacency among personnel if measures are perceived as routine or unnecessary. Effective communication, training, and leadership are critical in ensuring that FPCON measures achieve their intended security objectives without unduly affecting morale or operational capability.

See Also

• Military strategy
• Terrorism
• United States Department of Defense
• Security