EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE — A new operational security policy at Eglin Air Force Base will soon prohibit the use of dash cameras and other vehicle-mounted recording devices on the installation, a move base leadership says is necessary to protect personnel, assets, and national defense missions.

The policy, signed by the 96th Test Wing commander in December 2025, applies to all privately owned vehicles entering the base. Beginning March 1, drivers who refuse to comply with the policy may be denied access at base entry points.

Under the new rules, owner-installed recording devices must be powered off and removed from view, while factory-installed or built-in vehicle cameras must be completely powered down before entering the installation. The policy also extends to motorcycles, requiring helmet-mounted cameras to be powered off and removed.

Base officials say the restrictions are a critical layer of operational security, aimed at limiting the collection of sensitive imagery and information that could compromise military operations.

“Defending the base is my top priority, and it takes all of Team Eglin to achieve this,” said Lt. Col. Michael Bruton, commander of the 96th Security Forces Squadron. “Eglin’s OPSEC policy is a layer of protection for our ability to directly project national defense.”

Bruton emphasized that controlling recording devices helps safeguard the installation’s mission and supports the base’s role in delivering advanced capabilities essential to national security and strategic deterrence.

The policy reflects growing concerns across military installations nationwide about the risks posed by unauthorized recording technology and the potential exposure of sensitive locations, movements, and infrastructure.