50 buildings, restricted airspace and a small unpaved airstrip to test and train unmanned
aerial systems. The installation also offers virtual combat systems in small arms
engagement skills, HMMWV vehicle rollover, and virtual convoy operations training.
Military groups that use FMR for various types of training include the AZARNG, Navy
Reserves, Marine Corps Reserves, and U.S. Army units. Non‐military users include the
Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Border Patrol, Boy Scouts of America, Reserve
Officer Training Corps (ROTC), Junior ROTC, Boeing, Raytheon, and local law enforcement
agencies. The Royal Danish Air Force is an international user of the site, as well.
The firing ranges at FMR are used by AZARNG troops primarily during weekends, specific
training cycles, and during pre‐deployment training. When the AZARNG is not using the
ranges, they could be available for outside organizations to use through the
establishment of various types of partnerships such as public‐public partnerships,
public‐private partnerships, or public‐public and public‐private partnerships. There are
wide‐reaching benefits to partnering with local communities and other organizations.
These include saving military and community dollars, improving military and community
operations, and improving relationships.
While a number of entities already utilize the facilities at FMR, there is an opportunity for
additional partnerships to be made with the AZARNG. As of a result of discussions that
occurred during the JLUS committee meetings, the AZARNG and the Pinal County
Sheriff’s Office are working to develop a partnership for county officers to utilize the
shooting ranges for training purposes.
Issue:
COM‐5
AZARNG Site: Formalize communication between
Silverbell Army Heliport and Pinal Airpark.
Silverbell
Army Heliport
There is an opportunity for improved
communication between the AZARNG (operating
Silverbell Army Heliport and Picacho Peak
Stagefield) and Pinal County (operating Pinal
Airpark) to better coordinate activities so as to
minimize conflicts between military and civilian
flight activities.
Compatibility Assessment
Silverbell Army Heliport is located directly adjacent to Pinal Airpark. Effective and regular
communication between the aviation facilities is necessary due to their close proximity
and shared use of airspace. Plans for physical expansion or increase in flight activity at
either facility should be communicated with the other organization as they could
negatively impact the neighboring facility.
5-22
Compatibility Assessment