Drone-spotting exercise set for next week

  • Published
  • By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  - Drone-like aircraft will be flying in and around the flightline May 29 – June 5 as part of a base training mission aimed at enhancing awareness of unmanned aerial system (UAS) threats.

The exercise is designed to increase base population education on how to identify the threat of unauthorized UAS activity and respond appropriately.

During this event, anyone who sees drone-like aircraft are encouraged to call 96th Security Force Squadron at (850) 882-2000 to report drone-like aircraft.

This training aligns with the Department of Defense’s priorities to focus on homeland defense.  Eglin leadership continues to advance counter-UAS strategies, with efforts led by a dedicated working group established seven months ago.  This team has been developing standardized reporting procedures and response protocols for unauthorized drone activity.

“The job of the installation is to protect and sustain those missions within, so they continue to be effective,” said Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro, 96th Test Wing commander.

Insights gained from this event will inform future improvements to Eglin’s cUAS posture and contribute to the broader DOD homeland defense initiatives.