Thread by @Aviation_Intel

Let me take a stab at this after years of reporting on Marine One, HMX-1, Continuity of Government, etc. None of this is definitive, but it could help explain what folks are seeing:

1.) HMX-1, which flies the VH-3D and VH-60N 'White Top' helicopters used to move... 1/X

https://twitter.com/BeschlossDC/status/1348723955096580097

the President and VP around, those helos being called Marine One or Two when either is onboard, need to train. The urban landing zones, including WH and VP Residence, are not simple to get in and out of. So, crews need some currency training. They are not just tasked with... 2/X

moving POTUS and VP to get them around the region and to Andrews AFB for long-haul flights, they are essential to Continuity of Government operations. This means that if a threat were to emerge, they need to be ready to snatch POTUS and VP in minutes. This is partially... 3/X

why they have a full forward operating location at Naval Support Activity Anacostia, just 3 miles from the WH. As such, practice is important and considering the state of things, it is critical now more than in any recent memory. 4/X

2.) Considering what happened last week, including mobs of Trump supporters screaming in unison to hang the VP for doing what the constitution states, absolutely despicable in every way, security has been tightened just as it has been all over. Using the helicopters instead.. 5/X

of the motorcade to get the VP where he needs to go is among the most obvious security changes that SHOULD happen, we can only hope that is the case. But this would result in a lot more helo activity at the VP residence and is likely what we are seeing.

If there was some sort of transfer of power, this wouldn't necessarily be an indicator, although anything is possible at this time.

I hope that helps!

Also, HMX-1 is actually based out of Quantico, Virginia, some 30 miles south of the WH. Just to make it clear the difference in access and staging between the two sites.

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