Faux drone attack over NASP port

PENSACOLA, Fla. - A small unmanned aerial system hovered above Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla.’s port facilities Oct. 24 during a first-ever drone-related training exercise designed to ready base and community first responders for potential chemical, biological or radiation attacks. The scenario involved a drone dropping a fake chemical over the port, causing five sailors and a security guard to lose consciousness. Pensacola Police and Escambia County Sheriff's Office deputies were among first responders that watched and learned from the exercise. ESCO Deputy Jacob Halloway said coordination among the military and local law enforcement agencies is a crucial part of protecting the base and surrounding community. The exercise took more than two months to organize; and required base security and fire officials to determine potential threats and appropriate responses. First responders were not advised in advance as to what chemical the drone was to deliver; and had to prepare for multiple possibilities before donning protective gear and helping the downed sailors. (Source: Pensacola News Journal 10/25/17)