Navy Media Queries and Internal Coordination Regarding UAP Reporting Procedures (April-May 2019)

This document consists of an extensive email chain from April and May 2019, documenting the internal coordination within the U.S. Navy regarding media inquiries about Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and new reporting guidelines. The correspondence centers on the Navy's response to stories published by Politico and The Washington Post, which highlighted the Navy's efforts to standardize how pilots report sightings of unidentified aircraft. The primary spokesperson for these inquiries is Captain Joseph Gradisher, representing the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare (N2N6). The emails reveal a concerted effort to manage public messaging while maintaining operational security. The Navy's official stance, as articulated in the provided statements, emphasizes that the new reporting procedures were developed due to the proliferation of inexpensive unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the resulting need to ensure aviation safety and airspace de-confliction. The Navy explicitly states that it takes these reports seriously and is formalizing the process to better understand the source and nature of these observations. The documents also show the Navy's internal discussions regarding how to handle specific requests from various media outlets, including CBS, CNN, The Hill, and CTV News. There is significant internal debate and coordination regarding whether to provide interviews, how to address questions about the classification of the new guidance, and how to respond to claims made by external organizations like To The Stars Academy of Arts and Science. The correspondence highlights the involvement of senior leadership, including VADM DeWolfe H. Miller and B. Lynn Wright, in reviewing and approving the messaging. The documents confirm that the Navy is not working with external entities on this matter and that security considerations preclude the public disclosure of the specific, aircraft-sensitive reporting guidelines. The emails also touch upon the historical context, referencing previous Pentagon programs and the growing interest from Congress, including briefings provided to senators by senior Naval Intelligence officials.