History

The National Guard Counterdrug Program was established in 1989 in response to the growing drug threat facing the United States. The program was designed to leverage the unique capabilities of the National Guard to support law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations in reducing drug trafficking, drug abuse, and their associated impacts on communities.

In its early years, the program focused primarily on supporting federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies through intelligence analysis, surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational support. National Guard personnel augmented interdiction efforts, provided specialized training to law enforcement partners, and supported community outreach initiatives aimed at increasing public awareness of the dangers of drug abuse.

Over time, the program expanded to address the full spectrum of counterdrug activities. This evolution included greater emphasis on prevention, education, and demand-reduction efforts, with National Guard personnel working alongside schools, community organizations, and public health partners to help deter drug use and strengthen community resilience. The program also supported treatment and recovery initiatives by enabling collaboration among law enforcement, healthcare providers, and local stakeholders.

In addition to its domestic mission, the National Guard Counterdrug Program has supported international counterdrug and security cooperation efforts, providing training and assistance to partner nations to strengthen their capacity to counter transnational drug trafficking organizations, consistent with U.S. law and policy.

Today, the program remains a critical component of the nation’s broader drug control strategy. By delivering operational support, actionable intelligence, and community-focused prevention efforts, the National Guard Counterdrug Program continues to disrupt drug trafficking networks, reduce the availability of illicit drugs, and adapt to emerging threats, most notably the opioid and fentanyl crisis, while reinforcing partnerships at the federal, state, local, and community levels.