FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 10, 2025

CONTACT

Aric Mitchell, PIO

479-709-5000

info@fortsmithpd.org

COMMUNITY NOTICE

188th Security Forces Squadron and Fort Smith Police Department Announce Enhanced Collaboration on Counter-UAS Measures

Fort Smith, AR - The 188th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) and the Fort Smith Police Department (FSPD) have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration on counter-Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) measures within the jurisdiction of Fort Smith, Arkansas. This partnership aims to enhance public safety and enforce airspace regulations by combining the resources and expertise of both organizations.

The 188th SFS possesses advanced equipment for detecting, identifying, and locating UAS within the airspace controlled by the 188th Wing. Operating a UAS in restricted airspace is a Class A misdemeanor under Arkansas State Statute §5-60-103. The FSPD is responsible for maintaining public safety and enforcing local laws, including those pertaining to UAS trespassing.

Under the MOU, the 188th SFS will provide timely notifications to the FSPD regarding detected UAS intrusions within restricted airspace, including accurate grid coordinates and other relevant information to facilitate FSPD response. Fort Smith police officers will assist the 188th SFS in enforcing temporary flight restrictions and addressing UAS trespassing. The FSPD will dispatch officers to investigate and, if necessary, make contact with UAS operators to enforce applicable laws and regulations.

“This partnership is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and security of our community,” said Major Nathan Sosebee, Commander of the 188th Security Forces Squadron. “By combining our resources and expertise, we can effectively address the challenges posed by unauthorized UAS operations.”

Chief Danny Baker of the Fort Smith Police Department added, “We are pleased to partner with the 188th SFS to address the issue of UAS trespassing. This collaboration will enhance our ability to enforce local laws and maintain public safety.”

This MOU is effective immediately and will remain in place until January 1, 2035, unless terminated earlier by either party with thirty days’ written notice.

How the Collaboration Works:

In addition to utilizing the FSPD’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for efficient communication and coordination, the 188th SFS and FSPD will also conduct joint patrols in designated areas surrounding Ebbing Air National Guard Base. This will allow for real-time data sharing and a more coordinated response to potential UAS incidents.

Why Now?

The collaboration between the 188th SFS and FSPD is not in response to a sudden increase in UAS incidents. Rather, it is the result of ongoing efforts to enhance security and ensure compliance with airspace regulations. The MOU formalizes and strengthens the existing partnership between the two organizations.

Public Reporting of Drone Sightings:

The public plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of our community. Anyone who observes a drone flying near Ebbing Air National Guard Base, Fort Smith Regional Airport, or in any other location where it may pose a safety hazard is encouraged to report the sighting to the Fort Smith Police Department at 479-709-5000.