U.S. military personnel commenced a scheduled training period today at Naval Air Station Key West and across Monroe County, with operations set to continue through Friday, November 7.
The exercise, announced by NAS Key West public affairs, includes mobility operations involving multiple types of military aircraft and ground-based tactical training. Activities are confined to the installation's 5,800-acre footprint on Boca Chica Key and designated areas within the county.
NAS Key West serves as the primary air-to-air combat training facility for the Department of Defense, hosting fighter squadrons from the Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and allied nations. The base supports year-round flight operations and maintains restricted airspace for tactical maneuvers.
Overnight hours saw increased air activity, including tanker aircraft departures from MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa for refueling support. Miami Air Route Traffic Control Center broadcast advisories on 323.000 MHz directing civilian pilots to avoid Department of Defense-restricted zones.
Base officials stated the training is routine and essential for maintaining operational readiness. No road closures or waterfront restrictions were announced for the public. Residents near Boca Chica Field and surrounding keys may observe higher volumes of military aircraft and vehicle movements. The exercise coincides with the ongoing Race World Offshore powerboat championships in Key West Harbor, where the U.S. Coast Guard has enforced a separate safety zone through November 9. NAS Key West coordinates with local agencies to minimize overlap. Monroe County Emergency Management issued no alerts tied to the military activity. Civilians encountering restricted areas are directed to contact NAS Key West security at 305-293-2300 or monitor VHF Channel 16 for maritime updates. NAS Key West, home to tenant commands including the Joint Interagency Task Force South and the Army Special Forces Underwater Operations School, conducts similar multi-domain drills several times annually.