The Air Force has implemented a series of new steps to improve base security following an order from Defense Secretary Ash Carter to improve the safety of military facilities following the July shooting at a recruiting center in Chattanooga, Tenn. The Air Force has increased the number of armed security forces on bases through multiple programs, expanded force protection measures at off-installation facilities, and is working on a long-term mass notification system, Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James said in a Dec. 3 release. “Commanders remain fully empowered and are expected to make arming decisions for off-installation facilities consistent with existing authorities,” James said. “They are also best positioned to balance the mission with the threat and determine the appropriate level of security required for a given facility.” As a part of the new protocols, off-base facilities need to establish and maintain emergency action plans, which have to be practiced at least twice per year, according to the release. (See also: Heightened Base Defense Level to Stay)
The Space Development Agency says it’s on track to issue its next batch of missile warning and tracking satellite contracts this month after those awards were delayed by the Pentagon’s decision to divert funds from the agency to pay troops during this fall’s prolonged government shutdown.
