U.S. Navy Deploys Power in Annual Force Protection Drill Across Installations and Fleet Commands

In an effort to bolster national defense readiness, the U.S. Navy is conducting its annual Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain exercise from February 3rd to 14th across all Navy installations in the continental United States. This initiative is led by Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC) and Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC).

“Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain reinforces our commitment to protecting our people and preserving operational readiness by testing our ability to adapt to evolving force protection, security, and mission assurance challenges,” Admiral Daryl Caudle, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, stated. The exercise is designed to enhance coordination among fleet and shore forces, installation commands, and partner agencies.

The training event is divided into two phases: Citadel Shield, a field training exercise (FTX) managed by CNIC, in the first week; followed by Solid Curtain, a command post exercise (CPX) spearheaded by USFFC in the second week. Both phases aim to boost the readiness of Navy security forces in dealing with realistic threats such as active shooters, unauthorized base access, and the use of improvised explosive devices.

Vice Admiral Scott Gray, commander of Navy Installations Command, emphasized the significance of these maneuvers. “These comprehensive training scenarios simulate real-world threats to enhance our readiness and interoperability with other services and agency partners,” he noted.

It’s important to note that CS-SC25 is a scheduled exercise and not a response to any particular threat. Efforts have been made to reduce disruptions to nearby communities and maintain normal base operations, though there could be temporary increases in traffic or delays in base access. Coordination with local law enforcement and first responders has been conducted to facilitate the exercise.

Area residents are advised to check local Navy installation websites and social media for information on potential local impacts. For more details on U.S. Fleet Forces or Navy installations, please visit their websites or follow them on social media platforms.