Dr. James Lacatski is a retired engineer and intelligence analyst from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) who initiated and directed the Advanced Aerospace Weapon Systems Applications Program (AAWSAP). AAWSAP was a DIA-funded, $22 million research project (2008–2010) focused on the scientific investigation of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP), including UFOs and related anomalies. Under his leadership, AAWSAP systematically collected and examined reports of mysterious airborne objects and broader phenomena in partnership with private sector experts like Robert Bigelow and Colm Kelleher, leveraging Bigelow Aerospace Advanced Space Studies (BAASS) as the main contractor.

Lacatski’s role was pivotal—not only did he manage the program’s scientific and intelligence objectives, but he also shaped its direction, ensuring a comprehensive approach that included both physical technology analysis and the study of alleged anomalous phenomena. AAWSAP produced a wide array of technical reports involving respected researchers, and several of its investigations are documented in the book Skinwalkers at the Pentagon co-authored by Lacatski, Kelleher, and journalist George Knapp. He continued to reveal details of the program in later books, like Inside the U.S. Government Covert UFO Program: Initial Revelations (2023) and New Insights (2024).newparadigminstitute+2​

Key Points:

• Founder/Director: Lacatski initiated, secured funding, and led AAWSAP within DIA.

• Scope: Oversaw investigations into advanced aerospace threats, UAPs, and unexplained phenomena, some involving Skinwalker Ranch.

• Legacy: AAWSAP information provided the foundation for subsequent Pentagon UAP investigations, and Lacatski remains a key figure in the history of official U.S. government research into UFOs.

Sources:

• RationalWiki summary, chronicling Lacatski’s management and AAWSAP’s operationsrationalwiki​

• Congressional documentation noting Lacatski’s initiation and management for DIAcongress​

• Skinwalkers at the Pentagon book and summariesshortform​

• Recent interviews and reporting on Lacatski’s continuing disclosuresnewparadigminstitute​

These sources present the official history and recent revelations of AAWSAP as directed by Dr. James Lacatski and detail his influence in bringing scientific seriousness to government UAP investigations.