DoD: New justification for Mosul Orb secrecy
Defense officials rejected a formal information request regarding the 2016 aerial encounter. The denial invoked exemptions typically reserved for criminal investigations and sensitive intelligence. Authorities established a novel classification approach for aerial phenomena cases.
Background
On June 3, 2023, defense officials rejected a formal information request regarding the 2016 aerial encounter. The denial letter invoked exemptions typically reserved for sensitive intelligence activities and criminal investigations. Authorities claimed the material remains properly classified under executive security orders. Additionally, officials cited ongoing law enforcement proceedings as justification for withholding records. This response represents a significant evolution in governmental transparency practices regarding aerial phenomena, establishing precedents for future classification decisions.