AF Form 4445: Request for TSCM – Air Force Guide 2026

AF Form 4445: Request for TSCM – Air Force Guide 2026 – Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) play a critical role in protecting classified and sensitive information from espionage threats, including hidden listening devices, cameras, and other technical penetration tools. For U.S. Air Force members, contractors, and supported Department of Defense (DoD) components, AF Form 4445 serves as the official document to request these essential security services.

Whether you need a one-time sweep for a sensitive meeting, periodic surveys for a secure facility, or emergency support following a potential compromise, understanding AF Form 4445 ensures your request is processed efficiently through the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), the sole Air Force organization authorized to conduct TSCM activities.

What Is AF Form 4445?

AF Form 4445, titled Request for Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM), is an official Air Force form used to initiate TSCM support. It standardizes requests for services designed to detect, neutralize, and exploit hostile technical surveillance devices and hazards that could compromise U.S. government information.

The form is referenced in AFI 71-101 Volume 3, The Air Force Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) Program (21 May 2019), which implements broader DoD policy under DoDI 5240.05. AFOSI personnel use the submitted information to assess threats, prioritize support, and schedule surveys.

Download the official AF Form 4445 here:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_ig/form/af4445/af4445.pdf

This fillable PDF is available directly from the Air Force e-Publishing site and should be used for all official submissions.

What Are Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM)?

TSCM refers to a suite of specialized techniques—including visual inspections, electronic sweeps, and physical examinations—to identify and mitigate risks from:

  • Hidden microphones, transmitters, or recording devices
  • Unauthorized cameras or data exfiltration tools
  • RF (radio frequency) emissions or other technical hazards
  • Potential insider or foreign intelligence threats

These services protect facilities where classified or sensitive unclassified information is discussed, processed, or stored. DoD policy emphasizes TSCM as a key counterintelligence tool to safeguard national security.

AFOSI is the designated Air Force TSCM provider, ensuring only trained personnel with approved equipment conduct these highly technical operations.

Who Should Use AF Form 4445?

Eligible requesters include:

  • Air Force active duty, Reserve, and Air National Guard personnel
  • Civilian employees and contractors supporting Air Force missions
  • AFOSI-supported DoD components (as listed in DoDI 5240.05 Enclosure 3)

Requests are typically coordinated through your unit security manager or Program Security Manager, especially for activities involving classified information. In joint operations areas (JOA), units may use AF Form 4445 or the format outlined in DoDM S-5240.05.

Note: All TSCM-related discussions and requests must follow strict operational security (OPSEC) protocols. Avoid discussing potential sweeps in the target area.

When to Submit a TSCM Request Using AF Form 4445?

Common scenarios include:

  • Before high-level meetings or visits involving sensitive discussions
  • Routine or periodic surveys of secure facilities (e.g., SCIFs or command centers)
  • Following suspected compromise, discovery of suspicious devices, or security incidents
  • New construction or renovation of sensitive areas
  • Relocation of classified operations
  • Threat assessments indicating elevated risk

Submit requests as far in advance as possible. Emergency or verbal requests (via secure means) must be followed by a formal written AF Form 4445 within 24 hours.

If you cannot identify your servicing AFOSI unit, contact the AFOSI ICON Center Global Watch Hotline at 571-305-8484 using secure communications from outside the area of concern.

How to Fill Out and Submit AF Form 4445?

While the official PDF includes specific blocks and instructions, typical required information includes:

  • Requester details (name, rank/grade, unit, contact information)
  • Facility or location details (building, room numbers, classification level of activities)
  • Purpose of the request and description of sensitive activities
  • Date/timeframe needed for the TSCM service
  • Threat justification or incident details (if applicable)
  • Point of contact for coordination
  • Security manager or commander endorsement

Key Tips for Completion:

  • Use secure channels for submission (e.g., classified email or hand-carry).
  • Ensure all information is accurate and appropriately classified if required.
  • Coordinate with your unit security manager or TSCM point of contact beforehand.
  • Provide as much detail as possible to help AFOSI prioritize and plan the survey effectively.

After submission to your local or servicing AFOSI unit, the request undergoes validation, threat assessment, and scheduling based on operational priorities and available resources.

  • AFI 71-101 Volume 3 — The primary Air Force guidance for the TSCM Program.
  • DoDI 5240.05 — DoD-wide policy on Technical Surveillance Countermeasures.
  • DoDM S-5240.05 — Manual providing additional request formats and procedures.
  • Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 71-1 on Criminal Investigations and Counterintelligence.

These documents outline responsibilities, training requirements for TSCM personnel, and the importance of reciprocity across DoD components.

Why Proper TSCM Requests Matter?

In an era of advanced espionage technologies, proactive TSCM helps maintain information superiority and protects warfighters, decision-makers, and national assets. Submitting a complete and timely AF Form 4445 ensures your unit receives the professional support needed to mitigate technical threats effectively.

Important Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on publicly available official sources as of 2026. Always consult your unit security manager, AFOSI detachment, or current versions of AFI 71-101V3 and DoDI 5240.05 for the most up-to-date guidance. Policies and procedures can be updated, and specific handling depends on classification levels and mission requirements.

For the official form and related publications, visit the Air Force e-Publishing website (e-publishing.af.mil).

If you have additional questions about the TSCM process or need assistance locating your servicing AFOSI unit, contact your chain of command or security personnel through appropriate secure channels.

Keywords: AF Form 4445, TSCM request, Air Force Technical Surveillance Countermeasures, AFOSI TSCM, AFI 71-101, DoDI 5240.05, military security form, classified information protection.