San Diego, February 5, 2026
San Diego Navy bases are set to implement increased security measures and traffic delays as they prepare for the annual security exercise, Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield, which will run through February 6, 2026. The exercise is designed to enhance the readiness of Navy security personnel to respond to various threats. Residents near the installations are advised to plan for potential traffic congestion and should allow extra time for medical appointments due to expected delays. This proactive measure emphasizes the Navy’s commitment to national security.
San Diego, CA
San Diego Navy Bases Prepare for Annual Security Exercise
San Diego-based Navy bases have announced potential traffic delays and increased security measures during their annual security exercise, Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield, running through February 6, 2026.
Exercise Details
Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield is designed to enhance the readiness of Navy security personnel to respond to various threats against installations and units. This major training event is regularly scheduled and not a reaction to any specific threat, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to national security and operational readiness.
Expected Impacts
Residents living near military installations will likely notice increased security activity, and there may be significant traffic congestion around base entry points. These proactive measures aim to test and improve responses to an array of security threats, which is essential for maintaining the safety of both military personnel and the surrounding community.
Medical Appointments
Individuals with appointments at Naval Medical Center San Diego should plan accordingly and arrive at least 45 minutes early due to anticipated delays caused by the exercise. This advisory emphasizes the importance of ensuring that medical services remain accessible during this period of heightened security.
Contact Information
For further details regarding the exercise and its potential impacts, individuals can reach out to Brian O’Rourke at Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs at (619) 985-3725.
Background
Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield is an annual event that is conducted at Navy installations across the United States. The exercise’s purpose is to ensure that Navy security forces maintain a high level of readiness under changing and dynamic threat environments, contributing to the overall security of our nation.
Additional Information
Throughout the exercise, the San Diego area may see or hear security-related activities. These actions are necessary parts of the training and should not be interpreted as an immediate threat. The exercise serves to enhance the Navy’s protocols and ensure effective responses to potential security challenges.
FAQ
What is Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield?
Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield is an annual security exercise conducted at Navy installations nationwide to enhance the readiness of Navy security personnel to respond to threats against installations and units.
When is the exercise taking place?
The exercise is scheduled to run through February 6, 2026.
Will there be traffic delays during the exercise?
Yes, there may be increased traffic around base entry points and potential delays in base access during the exercise period.
How should I plan for medical appointments during this time?
Individuals with appointments at Naval Medical Center San Diego are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes early due to expected delays.
Who can I contact for more information about the exercise?
For more information, contact Brian O’Rourke, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs, at (619) 985-3725.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Exercise Name | Exercise Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield |
| Duration | Through February 6, 2026 |
| Purpose | Enhance readiness of Navy security personnel |
| Expected Impacts | Increased traffic and potential delays at base entry points |
| Medical Appointment Advisory | Arrive at least 45 minutes early due to expected delays |
| Contact Information | Brian O’Rourke, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs, (619) 985-3725 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USS Abraham Lincoln Begins Deployment to Indo-Pacific
USS Abraham Lincoln Conducts Live-Fire Drills in South China Sea
San Diego County Residents to Experience Loud Booms in December
USS Abraham Lincoln Departs San Diego for New Deployment
San Diego Marks 250 Years of Naval Presence
USS Abraham Lincoln Deploys for Northern Edge 2025
USS Carl Vinson Returns to Indian Ocean Amid Regional Tensions
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
