Fpcon Levels

FPCON (formerly THREATCON, or “terrorist threat condition”) is an abbreviation for “force protection condition.” The U.S. Department of Defense uses FPCON levels to determine which security measures to use when threatened by a terrorist attack. The Pentagon declared FPCON Delta, the strongest possible level, for U.S. forces around the world during the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C. Different locations usually have different levels, which are assigned taking into consideration the assets and infrastructures that may appeal to a terrorist group, how vulnerable the place may be to an attack, and the ability to recover and respond.

The first two of five terrorist threat conditions are general. The first level, FPCON Normal, means that a general threat exists but that security should be routine. FPCON Alpha—a slightly stronger, but unpredictable, terrorist threat—means that officials have not gathered enough intelligence to justify implementing the next level of security measures. Military personnel should be suspicious of strangers and alert for unidentified vehicles and abandoned packages or luggage. The military should secure all storage rooms and other areas not in regular use and increase spot checks on vehicles entering the area. This level may be maintained indefinitely.

An increased and more predictable threat leads to the third level—FPCON Bravo. All of the Alpha measures apply. Cars must be kept at least 25 meters from buildings, and all mail must be examined. Personnel must inspect buildings and visitors and have random patrols check vehicles, people, and buildings. Anti-terrorist personnel must be on call.

The fourth level, FPCON Charlie, is assigned when an incident occurs or when officials gain intelligence about an imminent terrorist attack. All antiterrorist personnel are called in to duty, access points are severely restricted, and vehicles are searched. Guards are issued weapons.

The fifth and highest level, FPCON Delta, is applied to the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred, or where officials learn that an attack on that location is likely. More guards are called to duty. All people and vehicles in a military installation must be positively identified. The military will consult with local authorities about closing roads and facilities that could be vulnerable. The fifth level does not always apply to a single location. During the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, the Pentagon applied Delta to U.S. forces worldwide, not just in New York and Washington, D.C.