Performance Work Statement Attachment 4 Airfield Small UAS SOP

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

US ARMY INSTALLATION MANAGEMENT COMMAND

HEADQUARTERS, UNITED STATES ARMY GARRISON, FORT BLISS

11685 SERGEANT MAJOR BOULEVARD

FORT BLISS, TX 79918

AMIM-BLO-A

MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD

14 April 2025

SUBJECT: Biggs ATC Branch Standard Operating Procedure for Detection and Reporting of Small Unmanned Aircraft System (Suas)

1. References

a. Army Regulation 95-23
2. Purpose This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) establishes the protocol for Biggs Army Airfield (BAAF) Air Traffic Control (ATC) facilities to identify, report, and respond to unauthorized Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) operating in controlled airspace. The primary goal is to ensure airspace safety by mitigating the risks associated with unauthorized sUAS operations.
3. Scope This procedure applies to all ATC personnel responsible for monitoring and managing air traffic within BAAF controlled airspace where unauthorized sUAS may be detected. It includes procedures for detecting, reporting, and mitigating the effects of unauthorized sUAS operations.

4. Definitions

 Unauthorized sUAS: A Small Unmanned Aircraft System operating in controlled airspace without the proper clearance, authorization, or approval from ATC or relevant authorities (e.g., FAA).
 ATC: Air Traffic Control, the service responsible for managing the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within controlled airspace.  Controlled Airspace: Airspace where ATC services are provided (e.g., Class B, C, D, and E airspace) and where operations of manned and unmanned aircraft are subject to ATC management.
 sUAS Detection Systems: Technology such as radar, radio frequency (RF) detection, or visual observers used to detect unauthorized UAS operations.  Airspace Incursion: An event where an aircraft, including a sUAS, operates in controlled airspace without proper clearance or coordination with ATC.

AMIM-BLO-A

SUBJECT: Biggs ATC Branch Standard Operating Procedure for Detection and Reporting of Small Unmanned Aircraft System (Suas)

5. Identification and Detection of Unauthorized sUAS
Currently BAAF are only utilizing visual observation and pilots’ reports. However, ATC facilities will utilize a variety of methods to identify and detect unauthorized sUAS operating in controlled airspace, including:
a. Visual Observation: Air traffic controllers or designated visual observers should continuously monitor the airspace for potential sUAS activity. If a suspicious object or potential sUAS is spotted, the controller must immediately