DoD: Establishment of All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office announced
The Department of Defense officially announced the creation of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office on July 20, 2022. This new body replaces and expands the previous Airborne Object Identification and Management Group. The office coordinates efforts across military and intelligence agencies to investigate anomalous phenomena in air, space, and maritime domains.
Background
On July 20, 2022, the Department of Defense publicly announced the establishment of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), consolidating and expanding previous UAP investigation efforts. Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks had already signed the establishment memorandum on July 15, 2022, renaming and expanding the scope of the existing Airborne Object Identification and Management Group (AOIMSG). The creation was mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, which required coordination with the Director of National Intelligence. Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Ronald Moultrie informed the department of the new office's activation, appointing Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick as its first director. The office receives oversight from the AARO Executive Council (AAROEXEC) and operates across six main lines of effort including surveillance, analysis, and threat mitigation. Its jurisdiction covers anomalous objects in space, airborne environments, submerged areas, and transmedium travel.