Security and Force Protection

Question 1

Force Protection Conditions (FPCONs):

Answer 1

A series of measures designed to increase the level of a
unit’s defense against terrorist attacks. FPCONs are not aimed at specific threats, but are selected based
on a combination of the following factors:
- The terrorist threat level.
- The capability to penetrate existing physical security systems.
- The risk of terrorist attack to which personnel and assets are exposed.
- The asset’s ability to execute its mission even if attacked.
- The protected asset’s criticality to their missions.

Question 2

Commanders Responsibility:

Answer 2

Commanders at any level can set the FPCON level; subordinate commanders can set a higher FPCON if
the local situation warrants. FPCON measures are mandatory when declared, are implemented immediately and can be supplemented by additional measures. The declaration, reduction and cancellation of a FPCON remain the responsibility of the commander issuing the order.

Question 3

FPCON NORMAL:

Answer 3

Applies when a general global threat of possible terrorist activity exists and warrants a routine security posture.

Question 4

FPCON ALPHA:

Answer 4

Applies when there is an increased general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel or facilities, the nature and extent of which are unpredictable. Alpha measures must be capable of being maintained indefinitely.

Question 5

FPCON BRAVO:

Answer 5

Applies when an increased or more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists.
Sustaining Bravo measures for a prolonged period may affect operational capability and relations with
local authorities.

Question 6

FPCON CHARLIE:

Answer 6

Applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely. Prolonged implementation of Charlie measures may create hardship and affect the activities of the unit and its personnel.

Question 7

FPCON DELTA:

Answer 7

Applies in the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred or when intelligence is received that terrorist action against a specific location or person is imminent. Normally, this FPCON is declared as a localized condition, also FPCON Delta measures are not intended to be sustained for substantial periods.

Question 8

Defense Readiness Condition (DEFCON):

Answer 8

Alert posture used by the United States Armed Forces.
The DEFCON system was developed by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, unified, and specified combatant commands. The system prescribes five graduated levels of readiness for the U.S. military, and increase in severity from DEFCON 5 (least severe) to DEFCON 1 (most severe) to match varying military situations.

Question 9

DEFCON Levels:

Answer 9

• DEFCON 5: Normal peacetime readiness.
• DEFCON 4: Normal, increased intelligence and strengthened security measures.
• DEFCON 3: Increase in force readiness above normal readiness.
• DEFCON 2: Further Increase in force readiness, but less than maximum.
• DEFCON 1: Maximum force readiness.