The Department of War has declassified and released a report detailing an unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) encounter by an aircrew operating near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The document, designated PR70 under the Department of War’s PURSUE policy framework, describes an event that occurred on March 1, 2015, at approximately 23:30 local time. The release is part of ongoing transparency efforts mandated by the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
According to the report, the aircrew observed an unidentified aerial object while conducting routine training operations over the Gulf of Mexico. The object was detected by onboard radar and visually confirmed by the crew. The sensor data, captured by the aircraft’s AN/APG-79 radar system, indicated the object exhibited no discernible propulsion system or aerodynamic control surfaces. The radar track file, labeled ‘IIR-1-655-S0301-23,’ shows the object maintained an altitude of approximately 20,000 feet and a speed of 150 knots, with no deviation in course or velocity during the observation period.
The report does not specify the exact type of aircraft involved, but it notes the platform was equipped with advanced sensor suites typical of fighter aircraft stationed at Eglin Air Force Base. The encounter lasted approximately 90 seconds, during which the object remained within visual range. The aircrew reported the object as a metallic, spherical shape with no visible markings or lights. The report does not include any analysis of the object’s potential origin or nature.
The Department of War’s release of this material falls under the PURSUE policy, which mandates the systematic declassification of UAP-related records. The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), established within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, oversees the review and release of such documents. AARO’s mission includes coordinating with military branches to ensure timely disclosure of UAP incidents while protecting sensitive operational details.
The release of this report is part of a broader effort by the Department of War to address public and congressional interest in UAPs. Previous releases have included videos and reports from various branches, including the Navy and Air Force. The Department of War has emphasized that the declassification process prioritizes transparency while safeguarding national security.
Moving forward, AARO may request additional data from the aircrew and supporting units, including maintenance logs, radar calibration records, and any other sensor data that could provide further context. AARO also has the authority to interview the operators involved and conduct site visits to the location of the encounter. The office continues to analyze similar reports to identify patterns or potential explanations, including advanced foreign technologies or atmospheric phenomena.
