PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — Security is ramping up around Mar-a-Lago as President Donald Trump could return to Palm Beach this weekend, with additional military air defense systems now positioned near his estate.
Increased security spotted near Mar-a-Lago ahead of possible Trump visit. CBS12’s Paige Meyer reports.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command confirmed that ground-based air defense assets have recently been deployed in and around Mar-a-Lago at the request of the U.S. Secret Service.
The Secret Service also confirmed that U.S. Northern Command is providing specialized counter-drone equipment to support presidential protection.
“The U.S. Secret Service continues to operate in a heightened threat environment, and this agency continuously adapts its protective operations to incorporate cutting-edge tools, technology, and methods to safeguard our protectees,” a Secret Service spokesperson said.
The agency has not disclosed whether a specific threat prompted the increased security.
New equipment spotted Thursday morning
Security is ramping up around Mar-a-Lago as President Trump could return to Palm Beach this weekend, with additional military air defense systems in place. (WPEC)
CBS12 News team spotted crews setting up what appeared to be an advanced radar or counter-drone detection system near Mar-a-Lago Thursday morning.
The military-style vehicle featured large circular panels and what appeared to be cameras or sensors potentially used to detect and track aerial threats.
Security is ramping up around Mar-a-Lago as President Trump could return to Palm Beach this weekend, with additional military air defense systems in place. (WPEC)
Crews at the scene declined to speak with CBS12 News or confirm what the equipment was being used for. It remains unclear whether the equipment is connected to the recently confirmed military counter-drone deployment.
The sighting comes as missile launchers have also been spotted at Donald J. Trump International Airport and on a barge near Mar-a-Lago.
Security is ramping up around Mar-a-Lago as President Trump could return to Palm Beach this weekend, with additional military air defense systems in place. (WPEC)
Possible Trump visit brings road closures
President Trump could return to Mar-a-Lago this weekend for the estate’s annual Halloween party.
While the White House has not confirmed the trip, the Federal Aviation Administration has issued flight restrictions for the Palm Beach area from Friday, Oct. 30, through Sunday, Nov. 1.
Ahead of the possible visit, the Town of Palm Beach announced that South Ocean Boulevard will close between South County Road and Southern Boulevard beginning Friday at 5 a.m.
South Ocean Boulevard to close for expected Trump visit
The road will remain closed until further notice.
Similar closures are typically implemented when the president visits Mar-a-Lago.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates,
