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Enforcement Zone Operations Research Center at FLETC Artesia

For Immediate Release

Artesia, NM – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is installing two additional International Border Fences (IBF) as a part of the Enforcement Zone Operational Research Center at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) Office of Artesia Operations (OAO) for U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) basic training. IBFs are replica border wall units depicting various designs. The project name was designated by CBP/USBP, and will be used primarily for USBP Basic training programs. Director Thomas J. Walters attended the ribbon cutting with Site Director Terry Todd on November 20, 2019.

The new IBFs have removable tops. USBP will test four different tops to determine which will work best in the field. U.S. Border Patrol Executive Assistant Commissioner Benjamin "Carry" Huffman explained how the threat on the border continues to evolve, and this research center will create effective enforcement solutions for a safer and more secure environment for frontline personnel.

FLETC-Artesia currently has 16 USBP classes overlapping, projections are showing student population to stay at the level and increase up to 18 in FY20.  Each class will have scenarios using IBFs.

The current IBFs used in training are built with the natural landscape to allow trainees to experience the different terrains they may encounter in the field. The new IBFs are built to give the students the same experience. OAO currently has eight IBFs in use. U.S. Border Patrol Agents train with the IBFs and role players on scenarios they may face in the field.

U.S. Border Patrol Executive Assistant Commissioner Benjamin "Carry" Huffman cutting the ribbon of the Enforcement Zone Operational Research Center (indoors due to inclement weather). (Courtesy Photo)

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Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
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Contact: 912-267-2447