The Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP) was a classified U.S. government program that operated from 2007 to 2012. Its primary purpose was to investigate and assess unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs, and other advanced aerospace threats that could pose national security concerns. AATIP was initially funded through a $22 million allocation from the U.S. Department of Defense, with support from Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) and other lawmakers who believed it was important to investigate unusual aerial objects and phenomena. The program was housed within the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), though it was relatively secretive and little-known to the public until later revelations. The program’s goal was to identify and analyze potential national security threats posed by advanced technologies, which could be either foreign or, as some believed, of unknown origin. AATIP primarily focused on UAP sightings reported by military personnel and pilots. In 2017, the existence of AATIP was made public when it was revealed through media reports and leaked footage. The New York Times published an article detailing the program, which brought significant attention to the government’s interest in UAPs. Included in the report were videos showing encounters between military pilots and unidentified flying objects that demonstrated remarkable flight capabilities, such as high-speed maneuvers and sudden changes in direction.

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