Officials say the increased threat level allows for heightened security measures at MacDill Air Force Base.
TAMPA, Fla. — MacDill AFB has increased its terror threat level to FPCON Charlie.
“This posture allows us to implement deliberate security measures proactively,” MacDill Air Force Base wrote on social media around 6 p.m. Tuesday evening.
It follows the Monday morning discovery of a suspicious package at the main entrance gate to the base on S. Dale Mabry.
FPCON Charlie is the second-highest force protection level for military installations.
“It is implemented when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action targeting personnel or facilities is likely,” according to the Defense Logistics Agency.
The increased security level can allow for additional security measures at gates or additional security forces.
MacDill is asking for patience when accessing the base as there may be a delay with security checkpoints.
Strict security measures have already been in place, including 100% I.D. Card checks, random vehicle inspections, and the continued suspension of the trusted traveler program.
Given the nature of operations on MacDill with U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command, the 6th Refueling Wing and its joint force partners, security is paramount.
“All personnel should remain vigilant, follow the direction of security forces, and report any suspicious activity immediately,” wrote MacDill Air Force Base.
Report suspicious activity to the base defense operations center at 813-828-3322.
When 10 Tampa Bay reached out to the FBI for updates regarding the investigation, a spokesperson said it remains ongoing and reiterated that the suspicious package was removed yesterday from the scene.
The FBI referred 10 Tampa Bay to MacDill Air Force Base for more information, but MacDill has not replied to our request for comment yet.
On Monday morning, the FBI sent bomb technicians to help Tampa Police with a suspicious package at MacDill Air Force Base’s Visitors Center. The base was not on lockdown, and by evening, the FBI confirmed the scene was clear.