(2) When an FPCON level is set, certain force protection measures are implemented. (1) It sets the FPCON level at Normal, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, or Delta. The FPCON system does two things to counter terrorists or other hostile adversaries: These commands use all available threat intelligence to help make an informed decision. The FPCON level is set by each major command and applied to its theater of operations.
This system is defensive in nature but proactive enough to give the commander the flexibility to protect the DoD elements, personnel resources and interests. The system is the principal means for a commander to apply an operational decision on how to protect against terrorism and facilitates coordination among DoD Components and support for antiterrorism activities. Force Protection Condition, or FPCON, is a Department of Defense (DoD) approved system standardizing DoD’s identification of and recommended preventive actions and responses to terrorist threats against U.S.