In accordance with COMNAVREG NW NOTICE 3501.1, it is prohibited to operate Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Unmanned Aircraft (UA), Non-Traditional Airborne Technology (NTAT), or devices considered as aerial “drones” on Naval Magazine Indian Island without authority granted by the Commanding Officer.
Under this instruction, UAS/UA/NTAT are defined as follows:
- An unmanned aircraft, non-traditional airborne technology, or drone is a device that is used, or is intended to be used, for flight in the air with no onboard pilot.
- The nomenclature depends on the circumstances of which government agency or non-government entity is involved.
- A device that can be controlled either manually or through autopilot using a global positioning system or datalink to connect the pilot to the device.
- A device that can be powered by propellers, single or multiple rotors and turbine engines.
- A device that can be used for surveillance, commercial and recreational purposes.
How to report a sighting:
If you observe a UAS onboard Naval Magazine Indian Island – you should immediately call 360-396-4444. This is the NON-emergency line directly into the Regional Dispatch Center. You may also call the NMII Command Duty Officer at 360-340-1984.
When calling to make a report, please provide the following information:
- Location – general reference point, landmark, street intersections, facilities
- Description – general size, color, number of props, fixed wing or rotary wing, numbers on aircraft, external payload – i.e. cameras, lights, possible improvised explosive devices (IED)
- Use known objects to provide altitude information such as "it was flying above the trees or below the third deck of building (name)".
- Direction – heading away from or towards a specific location, north, east, etc.
- Is the operator visible? Where?
Upon completion of your call with RDC, taking photographs or video of the UAS – if you can safely do so – would be extremely helpful for NMII Security. Your assistance in identifying these devices is essential for the safety and security of all NMII personnel and guests.
**PENALTIES: Use of UAS devices can result in civil penalties imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if not properly registered and if flown in unauthorized locations, or if they are not used in accordance with FAA guidelines. Strict federal criminal penalties may also be imposed which can accumulate in fines and imprisonment. Military personnel will be charged IAW the UCMJ. **