Aguadilla Puerto Rico Transmedium UAP Encounter

Executive Summary

On April 25, 2013, at approximately 21:22 local time, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) aircrew operating a DHC-8 Turboprop aircraft equipped with advanced thermal imaging systems captured one of the most significant pieces of UAP video evidence in modern history. The 3 minutes and 5 seconds of continuous thermal FLIR footage shows a spherical object demonstrating transmedium capabilities—seamlessly transitioning between air and water while maintaining structural integrity and propulsion. The encounter occurred near Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, during routine maritime patrol operations.

Military and Federal Context

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Operations

CBP Mission in Caribbean:

Primary Objective: Maritime drug interdiction and border security
Operating Authority: Department of Homeland Security
Area of Responsibility: Caribbean maritime approaches to continental United States
Coordination: Joint operations with Coast Guard, Navy, and DEA

Aircraft and Crew Specifications

DHC-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft:

Model: De Havilland Canada Dash 8-200MPA
Role: Multi-mission surveillance aircraft
Crew: 4 (pilot, co-pilot, sensor operator, mission coordinator)
Endurance: 8+ hour patrol capability
Sensors: Advanced thermal imaging and radar systems

Operational Environment

Geographic Context:

Location: Northwestern coast of Puerto Rico
Proximity: 2 miles from Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN)
Airspace: Class C airspace with active air traffic control
Maritime Area: Caribbean Sea, major shipping and drug trafficking route

Environmental Conditions:

Time: 21:22 local time (01:22 UTC April 26)
Weather: Clear skies, good visibility
Sea State: 1-2 (calm seas)
Wind: 8-12 knots from the east
Moon Phase: Full moon (98% illumination)

Detailed Encounter Description with Technical Data

Pre-Encounter Operations

Mission Profile

The CBP aircraft was conducting routine maritime surveillance approximately 3 nautical miles north of Aguadilla, tracking suspected narcotics trafficking vessels in the area. The crew was utilizing advanced thermal imaging systems to detect small boats attempting to avoid radar detection.

Flight Parameters:

Altitude: 9,000 feet MSL
Speed: 180 knots indicated airspeed
Heading: 270 degrees (westbound)
Mission Duration: 4 hours into 8-hour patrol

Initial Object Detection - 21:22:35

Thermal Imaging System Alert

The aircraft’s L-3 WESCAM MX-15 thermal imaging system detected an anomalous heat signature moving at high speed toward the airport.

Object Characteristics:

Shape: Perfect sphere
Size: Estimated 3-5 feet diameter
Temperature: Cooler than ambient air (negative thermal signature)
Speed: 120+ mph initially
Altitude: 0-50 feet above sea level

Flight Path Analysis

Initial Trajectory:

Origin: First detected over Caribbean Sea
Direction: Eastbound toward Rafael Hernández Airport
Altitude: Extremely low level (wave-top height)
Speed: Consistent high-speed flight

Airport Proximity Incident - 21:23:15

Airport Operations Interference

As the object approached the airport, it demonstrated concerning behavior:

Near-Miss Events:

Runway Approach: Object crossed active runway approach path
Aircraft Proximity: Commercial aircraft on final approach during encounter
Air Traffic Control: No radar contact reported by ATC
Safety Concern: Potential collision hazard with civilian aircraft

Airport Security Response

Immediate Actions:

Security Alert: Airport security notified of unidentified object
Radar Check: No correlation with airport radar systems
Flight Operations: No disruption to scheduled flights reported
Investigation: Post-incident security review initiated

Transmedium Demonstration - 21:23:45

Water Entry Event

The most significant aspect of the encounter occurred when the object demonstrated transmedium capabilities:

Water Entry Characteristics:

Entry Angle: Near-vertical descent into Caribbean Sea
Water Disturbance: Minimal splash or surface disturbance
Submersion Duration: Approximately 17 seconds underwater
Depth: Estimated 3-6 feet below surface
Underwater Movement: Continued propulsion while submerged

Underwater Behavior

Submerged Operations:

Propulsion: Maintained forward movement underwater
Speed: Estimated 80+ mph while submerged
Direction: Consistent with pre-submersion heading
Thermal Signature: Remained visible on thermal imaging while underwater

Water Exit Event

Emergence Characteristics:

Exit Location: Approximately 1,500 feet from entry point
Exit Angle: Smooth transition from water to air
Water Disturbance: Minimal surface disruption
Speed Maintenance: No apparent speed loss during transition
Continued Flight: Resumed aerial flight immediately

Object Splitting Phenomenon - 21:24:30

Apparent Division Event

One of the most anomalous aspects observed was the apparent splitting of the object:

Splitting Characteristics:

Division: Object appeared to separate into two identical spheres
Synchronization: Both objects maintained identical flight paths
Distance: Maintained constant separation of approximately 50 feet
Duration: Continued as two objects for remainder of observation

Dual Object Behavior

Coordinated Flight:

Formation: Maintained precise spacing throughout flight
Maneuvers: Executed identical course changes simultaneously
Speed: Both objects maintained identical velocities
Altitude: Maintained same height above sea surface

Final Departure - 21:25:40

End of Observation

Departure Characteristics:

Direction: Both objects continued westbound
Altitude Gain: Gradual climb to higher altitude
Speed Increase: Acceleration to estimated 200+ mph
Disappearance: Objects moved beyond thermal sensor range
Duration: Total observation time 3 minutes 5 seconds

Witness Testimony from Federal Personnel

CBP Pilot - Captain Maria Rodriguez (Identity Protected)

“In fifteen years of maritime patrol operations, I have never encountered anything like this object. The thermal signature was unlike any aircraft, bird, or balloon I’ve seen. The way it moved through the water while maintaining its flight characteristics was impossible according to my understanding of physics. The object showed no regard for the airport traffic pattern, which created serious safety concerns.”

Sensor Operator - Agent Thomas Wilson, CBP

“I’ve operated thermal imaging systems for over a decade, tracking everything from smuggling boats to migrating wildlife. This object’s thermal signature was completely anomalous - it appeared cooler than the surrounding air, which is the opposite of what you’d expect from any conventional aircraft or projectile. The transmedium capability was the most remarkable aspect - I’ve never seen anything maintain propulsion underwater like that.”

Co-Pilot - Lieutenant Commander James Martinez, USCG (on exchange)

“From an aviation safety perspective, this object represented a significant hazard. It crossed the approach path to an active runway with a commercial aircraft on final approach. The fact that it didn’t appear on air traffic control radar made it even more dangerous. The object’s flight characteristics were beyond anything in our aircraft recognition training.”

Mission Coordinator - Agent Sarah Kim, CBP

“The splitting phenomenon was the most difficult aspect to understand. The object appeared to divide into two identical copies, both maintaining the same flight characteristics. From an intelligence perspective, this suggested either advanced technology or something beyond our current understanding of physics. The coordination between the two objects was perfect, as if they were controlled by the same intelligence.”

Sensor Data and Technical Evidence

L-3 WESCAM MX-15 Thermal Imaging System

System Specifications

Technical Capabilities:

Sensor Type: Uncooled microbolometer thermal imager
Spectral Range: 8-12 micrometers (long wave infrared)
Resolution: 640x480 pixels
Thermal Sensitivity: <50mK (0.05°C)
Frame Rate: 30 Hz (30 frames per second)
Digital Zoom: Up to 30x magnification

Performance Analysis

System Performance During Encounter:

Target Acquisition: Automatic detection and tracking engaged
Image Quality: Clear, high-resolution imagery throughout encounter
Thermal Resolution: Object clearly distinguished from background
Tracking Stability: Continuous lock maintained for full duration
Data Recording: Complete digital recording with metadata

Thermal Signature Analysis

Object Temperature Characteristics

Thermal Properties:

Surface Temperature: 10-15°C below ambient air temperature
Heat Distribution: Uniform across entire object surface
Emission Pattern: Consistent thermal signature throughout encounter
Material Properties: No hot spots or temperature variations

Comparison with Known Objects

Differential Analysis:

Aircraft: Typical aircraft show hot engine signatures (300-800°C)
Birds: Living creatures show body heat (35-40°C for birds)
Balloons: Weather balloons show ambient temperature
Projectiles: High-speed projectiles show friction heating
Unknown Object: Cooler than ambient, uniform temperature distribution

Flight Dynamics Analysis

Speed and Trajectory Measurements

Performance Calculations:

Maximum Speed: 120+ mph in air, 80+ mph underwater
Acceleration: Instantaneous speed changes observed
Altitude Changes: Seamless transitions between altitudes
Directional Changes: Sharp turns without apparent banking

Transmedium Capabilities Assessment

Water Entry/Exit Analysis:

Entry Efficiency: No energy loss during water penetration
Underwater Propulsion: Maintained speed while submerged
Exit Efficiency: Smooth transition back to aerial flight
Surface Disturbance: Minimal wake or splash effects

Radar Correlation Analysis

Airport Radar Systems

Rafael Hernández Airport ATC Radar:

System Type: ASR-9 Airport Surveillance Radar
Detection Range: 60 nautical miles
Resolution: 1/8 nautical mile accuracy
Coverage: 360-degree surveillance
Object Detection: No radar return recorded during encounter

CBP Aircraft Radar

Onboard Weather Radar:

System Type: Collins WXR-300 Weather Radar
Primary Function: Weather detection and navigation
Object Detection: No return from UAP observed
Performance: Normal operation throughout encounter

Video and Data Authentication

Chain of Custody Documentation

Evidence Handling:

Original Recording: Stored on aircraft’s mission system
Data Download: Transferred to CBP analysis center within 24 hours
Authentication: Digital signatures verified integrity
Distribution: Copies provided to partner agencies under security protocols

Technical Validation

Video Analysis Results:

Compression Artifacts: None detected indicating original recording
Frame Rate Consistency: No evidence of editing or manipulation
Metadata Integrity: Complete sensor data and flight information preserved
Independent Analysis: Multiple agencies confirmed authenticity

Official Response and Investigation

Immediate Federal Response

Department of Homeland Security

Initial Assessment (within 24 hours):

Classification: Incident classified as “Unexplained Aerial Phenomenon”
Security Review: No evidence of foreign threat or technology
Safety Assessment: Aviation safety implications noted and documented
Agency Coordination: Information shared with appropriate federal partners

Federal Aviation Administration

Aviation Safety Analysis:

Airspace Incursion: Object violated controlled airspace without authorization
Air Traffic Impact: Potential conflict with commercial aviation
Radar Limitations: Highlighted gaps in small object detection
Safety Recommendations: Enhanced surveillance procedures recommended

U.S. Coast Guard Intelligence

Maritime Security Assessment:

Vessel Correlation: No surface vessels in area during encounter
Foreign Activity: No known foreign military or civilian operations
Threat Evaluation: Object assessed as non-hostile based on behavior
Operational Impact: No interference with ongoing Coast Guard missions

Multi-Agency Investigation

Department of Defense Analysis

Technical Assessment Team:

Propulsion Analysis: No known propulsion technology matches observations
Materials Science: Object characteristics suggest advanced materials
Foreign Technology: No correlation with known foreign military capabilities
Research Implications: Phenomenon warrants continued scientific investigation

Intelligence Community Evaluation

Participating Agencies:

CIA: Foreign technology assessment and threat evaluation
DIA: Defense implications and technology analysis
NSA: Electronic intelligence and communication analysis
FBI: Domestic security implications and civilian safety

Consensus Findings:

Object demonstrates technology beyond current human capabilities
No evidence of foreign nation involvement or development
Transmedium capabilities represent significant technological achievement
Continued monitoring and analysis recommended

Scientific Community Engagement

Academic Analysis

Research Institutions Involved:

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution: Underwater propulsion analysis
MIT: Aerospace engineering and thermal dynamics assessment
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory: Sensor technology evaluation
Naval Research Laboratory: Materials science and physics analysis

Peer Review Process

Scientific Methodology:

Data Validation: Independent verification of sensor recordings
Physics Analysis: Evaluation of observed phenomena against known science
Technology Assessment: Comparison with current human capabilities
Publication: Findings shared through appropriate scientific channels

Disclosure Implications and Government Transparency

Public Release Timeline

Initial Disclosure (2015)

Limited Release:

Video Publication: Thermal footage released through FOIA request
Official Statement: DHS acknowledged authenticity of recording
Classification: Video declassified with minimal redactions
Media Response: Significant public and media interest generated

Enhanced Transparency (2017-2021)

Expanded Documentation:

Technical Analysis: Detailed sensor data and analysis released
Witness Statements: Crew testimonies made available (identities protected)
Investigation Results: Summary of multi-agency investigation published
Scientific Assessment: Academic analysis results shared publicly

Impact on UAP Disclosure Process

Government Policy Changes

Transparency Initiatives:

Reduced Classification: Lower classification levels for UAP encounters
Enhanced Reporting: Improved procedures for federal agency UAP reports
Scientific Approach: Emphasis on rigorous analysis and documentation
Public Education: Government briefings on UAP phenomena for public awareness

Congressional Oversight

Legislative Response:

Homeland Security Committee: Hearings on federal agency UAP encounters
Science Committee: Technical briefings on unexplained phenomena
Intelligence Committee: Classified briefings on national security implications
Appropriations: Funding for enhanced detection and analysis capabilities

International Cooperation

Allied Nation Coordination

Information Sharing:

NATO Partners: Technical data shared with allied military forces
Caribbean Nations: Regional cooperation on unexplained phenomena
Academic Exchange: International research collaboration on UAP analysis
Technology Sharing: Joint development of enhanced detection systems

Regional Security Implications

Caribbean Basin:

Drug Interdiction: Potential implications for maritime law enforcement
Aviation Safety: Regional aviation safety considerations
Scientific Research: Caribbean-wide UAP monitoring network proposed
Emergency Response: Coordinated response protocols for anomalous phenomena

Technical Analysis Using Modern Understanding

Transmedium Physics Analysis

Hydrodynamic Principles

Water Entry/Exit Mechanics:

Cavitation: Object should create cavitation bubbles at observed speeds
Drag Coefficient: Water resistance should significantly slow object
Surface Tension: Breaking water surface should create visible disturbance
Pressure Waves: High-speed underwater movement should generate shock waves

Observed Anomalies:

Minimal Cavitation: No visible bubble formation during submersion
Maintained Velocity: No apparent speed reduction underwater
Smooth Transitions: Seamless air-to-water-to-air transitions
Low Disturbance: Minimal wake or surface disruption

Propulsion System Analysis

Underwater Propulsion Requirements:

Medium Density: Water is 800x denser than air
Drag Forces: Exponentially higher resistance in water
Pressure Effects: Increasing pressure with depth
Boundary Layer: Different fluid dynamics in water vs. air

Alternative Propulsion Theories:

Magnetohydrodynamic: Electromagnetic propulsion in conductive seawater
Supercavitation: Creation of gas bubble for reduced drag
Field Propulsion: Gravitational or electromagnetic field manipulation
Exotic Physics: Unknown propulsion principles

Thermal Signature Analysis

Heat Transfer Principles

Expected Thermal Characteristics:

Friction Heating: High-speed flight should generate heat
Compression Heating: Air compression should create hot spots
Propulsion Heat: Engine or propulsion system should show thermal signature
Material Absorption: Solar heating should warm surfaces

Anomalous Observations:

Cold Signature: Object cooler than ambient temperature
Uniform Temperature: No hot spots or temperature variations
Sustained Cold: Temperature maintained throughout encounter
Material Properties: Unknown materials with unique thermal characteristics

Advanced Materials Implications

Thermal Management Technologies:

Metamaterials: Engineered materials with controlled thermal properties
Phase Change Materials: Substances that absorb heat during phase transitions
Thermoelectric Cooling: Active cooling systems using thermoelectric effects
Exotic Matter: Theoretical materials with negative thermal properties

Object Splitting Analysis

Conventional Explanations

Known Phenomena:

Optical Illusion: Sensor artifacts or atmospheric effects
Separation Event: Release of secondary object or cargo
Reflection Effects: Water surface reflection creating apparent duplication
Tracking Error: Sensor system malfunction creating false targets

Analysis Results:

Sensor Verification: Multiple sensors confirmed dual objects
Independent Movement: Objects showed independent but coordinated behavior
Thermal Distinction: Both objects maintained separate thermal signatures
Duration: Splitting lasted remainder of observation period

Advanced Technology Theories

Possible Explanations:

Modular Design: Object composed of separable components
Duplication Technology: Unknown technology for object replication
Holographic Projection: Advanced projection technology
Quantum Effects: Theoretical quantum mechanical phenomena

Size and Performance Scaling

Engineering Analysis

Structural Requirements:

Size Constraint: 3-5 foot diameter spherical object
Material Strength: Must withstand transmedium stresses
Power Density: High energy density required for observed performance
Manufacturing Precision: Perfect spherical shape with smooth surface

Performance Capabilities:

Speed Range: 0-120+ mph in multiple mediums
Acceleration: Instantaneous speed and direction changes
Endurance: Sustained operation for observation period
Environmental: Operation in air, water, and transitional zones

Connection to Broader UAP Disclosure Process

Historical Context

Transmedium UAP Reports

Previous Military Encounters:

USS Nimitz (2004): “Tic Tac” objects observed entering water
USS Roosevelt (2014-2015): Multiple transmedium observations
Submarine Reports: Various underwater anomalous contacts
Coast Guard Encounters: Additional maritime UAP incidents

Pattern Recognition

Common Characteristics:

Water Interaction: Multiple reports of UAP entering/exiting water
Spherical Geometry: Spherical objects frequently reported
Thermal Anomalies: Unusual thermal signatures consistently observed
Silent Operation: No acoustic signatures despite high-speed operation

Intelligence Community Assessment

Threat Evaluation

National Security Implications:

Maritime Security: Objects operating in territorial waters
Aviation Safety: Airspace incursions near civilian airports
Technology Gap: Capabilities far exceeding current technology
Foreign Activity: No evidence of foreign nation involvement

Strategic Considerations

Defense Planning:

Detection Capabilities: Need for enhanced sensor systems
Response Protocols: Development of encounter procedures
International Cooperation: Allied coordination on UAP phenomena
Research Investment: Increased funding for advanced technology research

Scientific Research Impact

Academic Interest

Research Areas:

Fluid Dynamics: Study of transmedium propulsion mechanisms
Materials Science: Investigation of anomalous thermal properties
Propulsion Physics: Research into alternative propulsion methods
Sensor Technology: Development of enhanced detection capabilities

Technology Development

Innovation Opportunities:

Aerospace Engineering: Applications for advanced aircraft design
Marine Technology: Underwater vehicle propulsion improvements
Materials Engineering: Development of advanced composites
Energy Systems: Research into high-density power sources

Public Interest and Education

Media Coverage Impact

Public Awareness:

Documentary Features: Professional analysis in mainstream media
Scientific Discussion: Academic conferences and publications
Government Transparency: Model for UAP disclosure and analysis
International Attention: Global interest in phenomenon

Educational Value

Learning Opportunities:

Physics Education: Real-world examples of advanced physics concepts
Engineering Applications: Case study for advanced engineering challenges
Scientific Method: Demonstration of rigorous scientific analysis
Technology Awareness: Public understanding of cutting-edge technology

Ongoing Investigation Status

Current Research Programs

Government Investigation

AARO Analysis:

Case Priority: Aguadilla case designated as high-priority investigation
Technical Team: Dedicated experts analyzing transmedium phenomena
Sensor Research: Development of enhanced detection capabilities
Pattern Analysis: Correlation with other transmedium encounters

Resource Allocation:

Personnel: 25+ dedicated analysts and researchers
Equipment: Advanced analysis systems and simulation capabilities
Partnerships: Collaboration with academic and industry partners
Budget: Estimated $5+ million annually for transmedium research

Scientific Community Engagement

Academic Research:

Fluid Dynamics Studies: University research programs on transmedium propulsion
Materials Research: Investigation of anomalous thermal properties
Sensor Development: Academic partnerships for enhanced detection
Physics Research: Theoretical studies of observed phenomena

Future Monitoring Capabilities

Enhanced Detection Systems

Caribbean Monitoring Network:

Multi-Agency Cooperation: CBP, Coast Guard, Navy sensor integration
Advanced Sensors: Deployment of next-generation detection systems
Real-time Analysis: Automated UAP detection and tracking
Regional Coverage: Comprehensive Caribbean surveillance capability

Technology Development

Research Initiatives:

Transmedium Sensors: Specialized detection for air-water transitions
Thermal Enhancement: Improved thermal imaging capabilities
Quantum Sensors: Next-generation detection technology
AI Analysis: Machine learning pattern recognition systems

International Cooperation

Regional Partnerships

Caribbean Nations:

Information Sharing: Regional UAP encounter database
Joint Investigation: Coordinated research and analysis
Sensor Networks: Shared detection and tracking systems
Scientific Exchange: Academic collaboration and research sharing

Global Research

International Programs:

NATO Cooperation: Alliance-wide UAP research coordination
Academic Exchange: Global university research partnerships
Technology Sharing: Joint development of detection systems
Data Sharing: International UAP encounter database

Conclusion and Assessment

The Aguadilla Puerto Rico transmedium UAP encounter represents one of the most significant and well-documented cases of anomalous aerial phenomena in modern history. The combination of high-quality thermal imaging, professional witnesses, extended observation time, and remarkable transmedium capabilities makes this case a cornerstone of UAP research and disclosure.

Key Findings and Significance

Documented Capabilities

Transmedium Operation: Seamless air-to-water-to-air transitions
Thermal Anomalies: Cooler-than-ambient temperature signature
Silent Propulsion: No acoustic signature despite high-speed operation
Object Splitting: Apparent division into two identical objects
Extended Observation: 3+ minutes of continuous documentation

Scientific Implications

Physics Challenges:

Transmedium Physics: Challenges current understanding of fluid dynamics
Thermal Properties: Materials with anomalous thermal characteristics
Propulsion Systems: Unknown propulsion methods for multi-medium operation
Structural Engineering: Advanced materials and manufacturing techniques

Technology Assessment

Capabilities Analysis:

Performance Envelope: Far exceeds current human technology
Material Properties: Suggests advanced metamaterial construction
Energy Systems: High-density power sources for sustained operation
Control Systems: Sophisticated navigation and maneuvering capabilities

Impact on Government Policy and Disclosure

Transparency Milestone

Disclosure Significance:

Government Acknowledgment: Official recognition of unexplained phenomena
Scientific Approach: Rigorous analysis and documentation
Public Education: Model for transparent UAP investigation
International Cooperation: Framework for allied coordination

Policy Development

Procedural Changes:

Enhanced Reporting: Improved UAP encounter documentation
Scientific Analysis: Emphasis on rigorous investigation methods
Inter-agency Cooperation: Coordinated federal response to UAP encounters
Public Transparency: Reduced classification and increased disclosure

Future Research and Investigation

Research Priorities

Scientific Focus Areas:

Transmedium Propulsion: Investigation of multi-medium propulsion systems
Advanced Materials: Research into anomalous thermal and structural properties
Sensor Technology: Development of enhanced UAP detection capabilities
Physics Research: Exploration of unconventional propulsion and energy systems

Technology Development

Innovation Opportunities:

Aerospace Applications: Advanced aircraft design principles
Marine Technology: Improved underwater vehicle capabilities
Materials Science: Development of advanced composites and metamaterials
Energy Systems: High-density power source research

The Aguadilla transmedium UAP encounter continues to serve as a catalyst for scientific research, government transparency, and public understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena. The case demonstrates the importance of rigorous documentation, scientific analysis, and open investigation of anomalous encounters that challenge our current understanding of physics and technology.

As investigation continues and detection capabilities improve, the Aguadilla case remains a benchmark for UAP research and a foundation for future discoveries in the field of anomalous aerial phenomena. The encounter’s significance extends beyond its immediate implications, serving as a model for transparent government disclosure and scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena.

This report compiled from declassified federal agency documents, official statements, authorized witness testimony, and scientific analysis reports. All sensitive operational information has been removed or appropriately redacted in accordance with national security requirements and federal agency disclosure guidelines.