AR 190-11: A Comprehensive Overview
AR 190-11 governs the physical security of arms, ammunition, and explosives within the Army, detailed in various publications and manual procedures.
What is AR 190-11?
AR 190-11 is the foundational regulation dictating the stringent physical security protocols for all Army-owned arms, ammunition, and explosives. It establishes comprehensive guidelines to safeguard these assets against theft, loss, damage, and unauthorized access. This regulation isn’t merely a set of rules; it’s a critical component of overall force protection and accountability.
The regulation’s scope extends to all Department of the Army activities, encompassing both CONUS and OCONUS locations. It details responsibilities, procedures, and reporting requirements for commanders, armorers, and key custodians. Resources like DA Pam 71021, the Unit Supply System Manual, and FM 310-30 provide supplementary guidance for implementing AR 190-11 effectively. Understanding and adhering to this regulation is paramount for maintaining readiness and ensuring responsible stewardship of vital resources.
Historical Context of the Regulation
The origins of AR 190-11 trace back to the necessity of establishing standardized security measures for sensitive military assets. Early iterations addressed growing concerns regarding the loss and theft of weapons and ammunition, particularly following periods of conflict and increased global instability. Over time, the regulation evolved in response to changing threats, technological advancements, and lessons learned from operational experiences.
Significant revisions occurred in 2006 and 2014, reflecting updates to security protocols and reporting procedures. More recently, in 2023, changes were implemented to address current force protection conditions (FPCON) and emerging vulnerabilities. The regulation’s development has been a continuous process, informed by field feedback and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of accountability. It’s a living document, adapting to ensure the secure management of arms, ammunition, and explosives, as detailed in associated manuals.
Purpose and Scope of AR 190-11
AR 190-11’s primary purpose is to establish comprehensive policies and procedures for the physical security of all U.S. Army arms, ammunition, and explosives. This regulation aims to minimize loss, theft, and unauthorized disclosure of these critical assets, safeguarding personnel and national security interests. The scope encompasses all Army commands, installations, and activities worldwide, extending to both controlled and uncontrolled environments.
It applies to all personnel responsible for handling, storing, or transporting these materials, including commanders, armorers, key custodians, and supply personnel. AR 190-11 integrates with other relevant regulations, such as DA Pam 71021 (Unit Supply System Manual Procedures) and FM 310-30, ensuring a cohesive approach to security management. The regulation covers everything from initial receipt to final disposition, emphasizing accountability at every stage.
Key Sections and Requirements
AR 190-11 details crucial sections covering arms security, ammunition control, explosives protocols, and inventory procedures – notably paragraph 26d – for compliance.
Physical Security of Arms (Paragraphs 1-1 to 7-10)
AR 190-11, paragraphs 1-1 through 7-10, establishes stringent physical security measures for all Army-owned firearms. These regulations dictate how weapons must be stored, secured, and accounted for at all times, emphasizing preventative measures against theft, loss, or unauthorized access. Commanders are responsible for implementing and enforcing these standards within their units.
Specific guidance covers armory construction, access control, alarm systems, and regular inspections. Detailed procedures are outlined for securing weapons during both routine operations and heightened threat conditions, including adherence to Force Protection Condition (FPCON) levels. Paragraph 7-10 specifically addresses FPCON C and D instructions, demanding increased vigilance and enhanced security protocols. The regulation stresses the importance of maintaining a constant state of readiness and accountability for every weapon under command control.
Ammunition Security Regulations
AR 190-11 dedicates significant attention to the secure storage and control of all types of ammunition. These regulations, intrinsically linked to physical security, aim to prevent unauthorized access, theft, and accidental detonation. Strict guidelines govern the construction and maintenance of ammunition storage facilities, emphasizing fire resistance, ventilation, and robust locking mechanisms.
Detailed procedures cover inventory management, receipt, issue, and disposal of ammunition, ensuring complete accountability at all stages. Commanders are responsible for establishing clear procedures and conducting regular inventories to verify quantities and identify discrepancies. The regulation also addresses the transportation of ammunition, outlining specific requirements for vehicle security and escort procedures. Adherence to these standards is crucial for maintaining operational readiness and preventing catastrophic incidents.
Explosives Security Protocols
AR 190-11 establishes stringent security protocols for all explosive materials, recognizing their inherent danger and potential for misuse. These protocols surpass ammunition security measures, demanding heightened vigilance and specialized storage facilities. Designated magazines must meet precise construction standards, including reinforced structures, grounding systems, and intrusion detection devices, to mitigate risks.
The regulation details procedures for receiving, inspecting, storing, issuing, and disposing of explosives, emphasizing meticulous documentation and constant surveillance. Access is strictly limited to authorized personnel with appropriate training and background checks. Transportation of explosives requires adherence to specific routes, vehicle configurations, and security escorts. Commanders bear ultimate responsibility for enforcing these protocols and ensuring compliance with all applicable safety regulations, preventing accidents and safeguarding personnel.
Inventory and Accountability Procedures (Paragraph 26d)
AR 190-11, paragraph 26d, mandates rigorous inventory and accountability procedures for all arms, ammunition, and explosives. These procedures are foundational to preventing loss, theft, or unauthorized use. Unit supply personnel must conduct frequent, detailed inventories, reconciling physical counts with records in the Unit Supply System (UUSS), as outlined in DA Pam 71021.
Discrepancies require immediate investigation and reporting through established channels. Commanders are responsible for ensuring these inventories are performed accurately and consistently. Detailed records must document all transactions – receipts, issues, transfers, and disposals – providing a clear audit trail. Regular audits, both internal and external, verify compliance and identify potential vulnerabilities. Accurate accountability is paramount for maintaining readiness and upholding the security of sensitive items.
Compliance and Responsibilities
AR 190-11 establishes clear responsibilities for commanders and key personnel, ensuring strict adherence to security protocols for arms and ammunition.
Responsibilities of Commanders
Commanders bear the ultimate responsibility for enforcing AR 190-11 within their units, guaranteeing the meticulous physical security of all arms, ammunition, and explosives. This encompasses establishing robust internal controls, conducting regular inspections, and ensuring all personnel receive comprehensive training on relevant procedures.
They must verify that armorer/key custodian qualifications are current, including thorough medical reviews conducted IAW AR 190-11. Commanders are also accountable for promptly investigating and reporting any loss, theft, or discrepancies in inventory, adhering to established reporting procedures.
Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with Force Protection Condition (FPCON) guidelines, particularly during FPCON C and D, are critical commander duties. Furthermore, commanders must actively promote a culture of security awareness and accountability throughout their command, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding these vital assets.
Armorer/Key Custodian Requirements (Based on Medical Review ― IAW AR 190-11)
AR 190-11 mandates stringent medical reviews for prospective armorers and key custodians to ensure their suitability for handling sensitive materials. These reviews, conducted at the serving Medical Clinic or facility, are crucial for verifying mental and physical competence. The purpose is to mitigate risks associated with the secure storage and control of arms, ammunition, and explosives.
Specifically, the medical file review assesses factors that could potentially impair judgment or reliability. Successful completion of this review is a prerequisite for assignment to these critical positions. Ongoing medical evaluations may also be required to maintain eligibility.
Documentation of the medical review must be maintained as part of the individual’s personnel record, demonstrating compliance with AR 190-11 regulations and highlighting the commitment to responsible stewardship of military assets.
Reporting Procedures for Loss or Theft
AR 190-11 establishes clear reporting procedures for any loss or theft of arms, ammunition, or explosives. Immediate notification is paramount; commanders are responsible for initiating a thorough investigation upon discovery of any discrepancy. This includes a detailed accounting of the missing items and a preliminary assessment of the circumstances surrounding the loss.
Reports must be submitted through the chain of command, adhering to specified timelines outlined within the regulation. Accurate documentation is essential, including serial numbers, quantities, and any identifying features of the missing property. Failure to report promptly or accurately can result in disciplinary action.
The regulation emphasizes a proactive approach to security, aiming to minimize vulnerabilities and ensure accountability. Proper reporting facilitates recovery efforts and helps prevent future incidents, upholding the integrity of the Army’s security protocols.
Related Publications and References
AR 190-11 is supplemented by DA Pam 71021, detailing unit supply procedures, and FM 310-30, offering relevant operational guidance for implementation.
DA Pam 71021: Using Unit Supply System Manual Procedures
DA Pam 71021, the “Using Unit Supply System Manual Procedures” publication, serves as a critical companion to AR 190-11, providing detailed guidance on the practical application of supply regulations. It outlines specific procedures for managing and documenting arms, ammunition, and explosives within a unit’s supply system. This manual clarifies inventory control, requisitioning, receiving, and turn-in processes, ensuring accountability and compliance with Army standards.
Specifically, DA Pam 71021 assists personnel in correctly utilizing forms, maintaining accurate records, and conducting thorough inventories as mandated by AR 190-11, paragraph 26d. It bridges the gap between the regulatory framework of the Army Regulation and the day-to-day operational realities faced by unit supply personnel. Proper adherence to this manual is essential for minimizing loss, theft, and discrepancies, ultimately bolstering overall security and readiness.
Field Manual (FM) 310-30: Relevant Chapters
Field Manual (FM) 310-30, while not solely dedicated to physical security, contains vital chapters that supplement and support the requirements outlined in AR 190-11. Specifically, chapter 5 serves as a valuable guide for implementing effective security measures related to arms, ammunition, and explosives. It details procedures for establishing security perimeters, conducting vulnerability assessments, and responding to potential threats.
The manual provides practical guidance on integrating physical security protocols into daily operations, reinforcing the principles established in the Army Regulation. It emphasizes the importance of risk management and proactive security planning. Commanders and security personnel can leverage FM 310-30 to enhance their understanding of security best practices and ensure compliance with AR 190-11, particularly when conducting inventories (AR 190-11, para 26d; AR 7102, para 113d).
Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Considerations (Paragraph 7-10)
AR 190-11, paragraph 7-10, details specific instructions for Force Protection Condition (FPCON) C and D, impacting weapon and ammunition security protocols.
FPCON C and D Specific Instructions
During Force Protection Condition (FPCON) C, heightened security measures are implemented, requiring increased vigilance regarding arms, ammunition, and explosives. AR 190-11 mandates more frequent inventory checks and stricter control procedures to mitigate potential risks. Commanders must ensure all personnel are briefed on the current FPCON and their responsibilities.
FPCON D represents an elevated threat level, demanding even more stringent security protocols. Access to arms and ammunition is further restricted, and continuous surveillance is often required. Military weapons and ammunition are generally not authorized to be stored in barracks or other non-secure locations during FPCON D. Detailed guidance, as outlined in AR 190-11 paragraph 7-10, emphasizes proactive measures to prevent theft or unauthorized access, safeguarding assets and personnel. Regular drills and training exercises are crucial to maintain readiness and ensure compliance with these heightened security standards.
Recent Updates and Changes to AR 190-11
The Army regularly updates AR 190-11 to address evolving threats and improve security protocols for arms, ammunition, and explosives. Recent changes focus on enhancing accountability procedures and clarifying responsibilities for commanders and armorers. These revisions often incorporate lessons learned from incidents and aim to reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Updates frequently emphasize the importance of thorough medical reviews for key custodians, as stipulated in the regulation, ensuring personnel are fit to handle sensitive materials. Furthermore, changes reflect advancements in security technology and best practices. Staying current with these updates is vital for maintaining compliance and ensuring the physical security of critical assets. Summaries of changes are typically published to inform personnel of the latest requirements, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to safeguarding weaponry and explosive materials. Accessing the latest PDF version of AR 190-11 is crucial for all involved personnel.