SHREVEPORT, La. — The Air Force Office of Special Investigations is warning drone operators to avoid unauthorized flights near military installations, a message that carries particular significance in Northwest Louisiana, home to Barksdale Air Force Base and its strategic bomber mission.
The warning comes as military and federal authorities nationwide increase scrutiny of drone activity near sensitive facilities and critical infrastructure. AFOSI officials said unauthorized drone flights near Department of the Air Force installations can pose security risks and may result in criminal investigations and prosecution.
“The Department of the Air Force takes unauthorized drone activity near its installations seriously because protecting people and assets is our priority,” said Col. Brian Alexander, commander of the AFOSI Center.
According to AFOSI, operators are responsible for understanding Federal Aviation Administration regulations and airspace restrictions before launching a drone. Officials noted that military installations often have restricted airspace and that violations may lead to enforcement actions regardless of whether the operator intended to break the rules.
AFOSI officials said incidents involving unauthorized drones generally fall into three categories: operators unfamiliar with regulations, operators who knowingly ignore restrictions and individuals potentially conducting surveillance or other unlawful activities.
“The threat environment has changed, and AFOSI is treating these incidents seriously,” said Col. David Bethel, commander of AFOSI Region 8.
The agency said it is working with Security Forces, the Federal Aviation Administration, the FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Offices and other federal, state and local partners to investigate unauthorized drone activity and identify operators.
Officials encouraged drone users to check Notices to Air Missions, temporary flight restrictions and other FAA resources before flying. AFOSI also recommended the use of FAA-approved B4UFLY tools to verify airspace restrictions.
Members of the public who observe suspicious drone activity near military installations are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or base security officials. AFOSI said timely reports can help investigators locate operators, preserve evidence and determine whether laws have been violated.
Barksdale Air Force Base serves as headquarters for the Air Force Global Strike Command and is home to B-52 Stratofortress bomber operations, making airspace security around the installation a matter of ongoing importance for military officials.