Northwest Navy bases will participate in an annual anti-terrorism force protection exercise called Exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2022 on Jan. 31 – Feb. 11.

The Navy reports that measures have been taken to minimize disruptions within local communities and to normal base operations, but there may be times when the exercise causes increased traffic around bases or delays in base access due to temporary gate closures or other security-related activities.

Area residents may also see or hear security and other first responder activities associated with the exercise, potentially including training smoke, small explosive sounds or emergency notification loudspeaker announcements andincreased response vehicle or vessel activity on or near an installation. The simulations are part of the training exercise and pose no safety risk. Advanced coordination has taken place with local law enforcement and first responders.

The Navy reports that safety and security of people, equipment and facilities is a top priority. This annual exercise is designed to ensure Navy personnel are trained and prepared to respond appropriately, quickly and with confidence to a security threat.

This regularly scheduled exercise is not in response to any specific threat, but it is based on realistic scenarios designed to increase readiness. It is Navy policy not to discuss the specifics of Force Protection; therefore, the details of the exercise will not be released.

Exercise Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2022 is conducted by Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command and Commander, Navy Installations Command at all Navy installations located in the continental United States.