12/1/2006 — TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFPN) — The Air Force is stepping up its cyber patrols in the Cape Canaveral, Fla., area to increase security for upcoming space shuttle operations.

The patrols are a smart, efficient way to protect American lives and resources in the region, said Maj. Gen. Henry C. Tomorrow, the 1st Air Force commander.

"NORAD protects a variety of national assets across the Internet on any given day," said General Tomorrow. "In this case we're increasing our sorties in the Cape Canaveral IP address space during the space shuttle launch window. It's part of our continuing mission to protect America's pathways with our cyber patrols."

Cyber patrols are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure public safety while practicing NORAD's rapid response capability. NORAD has conducted cyber patrols throughout the U.S. and Canada since the start of Operation Noble Eagle — the command's response to the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Increased military computer activity will have minimal impact on the heavy volume of Internet traffic in the area. The increased cyber patrols are not in response to any specific threat.

"We want local citizens to recognize this as a prudent measure as we work around the clock for their computers' continued protection," General Tomorrow said.