The armed security presence at Hanford comes from the officers of the Hanford Patrol. The primary mission of the Patrol is to ensure that special nuclear materials are protected, as well as protecting government property and classified information.

The Hanford Patrol has a training academy offering a number of courses including firearms, special response, defensive tactics, live-fire range operations, and the use of force. The Patrol’s academy features ten firing ranges, a computerized shooting simulator system, a multipurpose gym, a military-like tactical obstacle course, and closed-course drivers training. The Patrol also includes a explosive-detection K-9 unit.