PORT ANGELES — The Coast Guard will conduct a maritime security exercise this evening, it announced today.
The exercise will be about 25 miles west of Port Angeles offshore.
It will simulate the boarding of a non-compliant fishing vessel to apprehend persons of interest suspected of transporting toxic industrial chemicals and military-grade weapons into Puget Sound. The exact time was not announced.
Units involved in the exercise will be Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team West, Coast Guard cutter Elm, Coast Guard cutter Blue Shark, Coast Guard Air Station Astoria and Air Station/Sector Field Office Port Angeles.
Mariners transiting the area are advised to maintain a safe distance of 1,000 yards from the exercise at all times, the Coast Guard said.
The Coast Guard said it is coordinating with federal, state and local partners to ensure there is no risk to the environment or protected marine species.
It said no impediment to commercial or recreational vessel traffic is expected.
“The Coast Guard conducts realistic exercises and simulations to remain prepared and responsive in the event of potential threats in the maritime domain,” the press release said.
”This exercise will help to uphold the safety and security of the maritime transportation system of Puget Sound.”
