The Pentagon is developing a requirement for major military bases in the continental United States to maintain essential operations without outside support for at least 90 days. The effort, called FORTRESS, prepares bases for disruptions to electricity and deliveries during a war.
The plan goes beyond generating electricity independently. It also covers water, fuel, and communications, along with reserves of medical supplies, equipment, and other essential goods. For its most important supplies, the military would need at least two approved sources of supply or production, so losing one would not stop operations.
Meanwhile, Britain launched its Be Ready campaign on October 22, encouraging households to prepare for three days without essential services. Its checklist recommends three liters of drinking water per person each day and food that requires neither cooking nor refrigeration. Families should also prepare food and water for pets.
Other recommended items include flashlights, portable phone chargers, first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered or hand-powered radio. Cash is advised in case card payments and ATMs stop working.
Neither government has said a new war is about to begin. Britain's effort also addresses severe weather and other emergencies, and it is the first stage of a three-year campaign.
