FPCON 101: Force protection conditions refresher

FORT BELVOIR, Va. -

Whether approaching a gate entrance on a military installation or entering a government owned facility, you have probably noticed the installation's Force Protection Condition level posted prominently.

Defense Department Instruction DODI O-2000.16 V-2, "DoD Antiterrorism Program Implementation," defines the DOD FPCON System as a way to help commanders deter, detect, delay, deny and defend their area of operations against terrorist threats.

FPCON levels are:

• FPCON Normal: Occurs when a general global threat of possible terrorist activity is possible. This is the minimum FPCON level. (Deter)
• FPCON Alpha: Occurs when there is an increased general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel or facilities. The nature and extent of the threat are unpredictable. (Detect)
• FPCON Bravo: Applies when an increased or more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists. (Delay)
• FPCON Charlie: Applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action targeting personnel or facilities is likely. 100% ID card check required. (Deny)
• FPCON Delta: Applies in the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred or when intelligence has been received that terrorist action against a specific location or person is imminent. 100% ID card check required. (Defend)

Setting an FPCON level ensures certain force protection measures are implemented. For example, if the DLA director elevates to FPCON Charlie, security measures might increase at the gate, gate lanes may close, or additional security forces might be present.

Since 9/11, the FPCON baseline level has been set and remains at FPCON Bravo.

FPCON levels are raised as a threat increases or if an attack has occurred. FPCON Charlie, which indicates that a threat is likely, sets into motion the agency's Continuity of Operations plans. If you are unsure if you are an essential or nonessential employee, contact your supervisor.

FPCON Delta, the highest and most protective level, limits installation access to mission-essential personnel and other personnel as determined by the DLA director.

For DLA Headquarters and major subordinate commands in the continental United States, the U.S. Northern Command commander sets the FPCON level. There is one caveat: The DLA director can raise the FPCON level when deeming there is a credible threat. Once the threat is over, the FPCON level is returned to the baseline, FPCON Bravo. The director cannot lower the FPCON level beyond the baseline.

Employee actions

As a government employee, you can become a target for terrorists at any time or location. Here are a few actions you can take to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you:

• Complete Level I Antiterrorism training every year.
• Complete all security-related training.
• Be vigilant.
• Practice good operations security.
• Vary your routine to and from work.
• Report suspicious activity or behavior using the DLA iWatch System on DLA Today or contact your local emergency operations center.
• When making a report, provide the date, time and a description of individuals involved.

For more information on FPCON levels or security programs in general, contact DLA iWatch at [email protected] or 703-767-4010.

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