Email correspondence (March 2023) between an OUSD(I&S) Information Disclosure Analyst and an AFOSI CI Collections/Operations PM seeking a derivative classification review (S//NF → UNCLASSIFIED) of a civilian-witness Intelligence Information Report describing a large blue triangular object hovering ~3 minutes near a national-security facility.
First-time release.
(b) (6) Good morning! Thank you for your patience on this-- like I said, this was a first for me. Upon consulting internally here at HQ, our folks confirmed we do have the authority to process this as a derivative classification review, instead of a declassification request. Based upon the summary you provided below, I concur with using this at the UNCLASSIFIED level in your product. Consider your request approved. Please let me know if there's anything else I can do for you! Thanks, (b) (6) OSI CI Collections and Operations PM Intelligence Oversight PM (b) (6) (b) (6) 1.4(a) Good morning, Thank you for your request. Our process for declassifying IIRs is lengthy and requires AFOSI Commander signature so I'm exploring options akin to a security review of the UNCLASS summary you have provided below. This is a first for me so I appreciate your patience as I try to streamline this request for you! Thanks, (b) (6) OSI CI Collections and Operations PM Intelligence Oversight PM 1.4(a) 1.4(a) CURRENT CLASSIFICATION S//NF-REQUESTED CLASSIFICATION UNCLASSIFIED Reported Appearance: An individual reported observing a large blue featureless triangular object with a solid, unwavering silhouette emitting powerful "whitish blue" light from multiple points along its perimeter. Reported Behavior: The reporter described the object as "hovering" stationary above or near a national security facility for approximately three minutes. They then reported observing it move to a position higher in their field of view. The reporter characterized the object's motion as "backing up" in a "jerking" or "jumping" manner inconsistent with "smooth" jet propulsion. The individual reported that they observed the object for approximately eight minutes. Other Observations: The reporter commented that they could not discern whether or how the object was controlled, could not identify its means of propulsion, and could not determine whether it had a defined "front or rear." They stated that they "didn't think" the object was a drone. The reporter also commented on behaviors and capabilities they did not directly observe. They stated that the object did not seem to travel along a defined flight path, possess any "photograph or data collection capabilities," emit a "vapor trail," or demonstrate "cloaking capabilities." Event Summary: Location: Pacific Time Zone Date: March 2023 Time of Day: Night Duration: Approx. 8 minutes Reporter Type: Civilian Obtained by: Personal cellular device Reported Characteristics: Altitude: Not reported Speed: Not reported Size: Large Shape: Triangular Color: Blue Material: Not reported Markings: Featureless Behavior: Emitting light, erratic movement The IIR and draft report are attached. This is a routine request, please confirm receipt. If you have any questions, please contact me. (b) (6) Information Disclosure Analyst Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security (b) (6) CLASSIFICATION: SECRET//NOFORN CLASSIFICATION: SECRET//NOFORN