Ground Reconnaissance

Ground Reconnaissance Teams within the National Guard Counterdrug Program provide law enforcement agencies with critical surveillance and reconnaissance support to enhance situational awareness and disrupt illicit drug trafficking activities. Operating in accordance with applicable laws and authorities, these teams augment, not replace, law enforcement capabilities.

Ground reconnaissance teams conduct authorized surveillance operations to observe, document, and report suspected drug trafficking activity. Using approved equipment and techniques, they monitor patterns of movement, terrain usage, and logistical indicators associated with drug trafficking, providing law enforcement partners with timely and relevant observations.

These teams collect and report information related to trafficking routes, methods, and environmental factors that may affect law enforcement operations. Their reconnaissance supports the identification of areas of concern, access points, and geographic features that inform planning and operational decision-making.

Ground reconnaissance teams support mapping and terrain analysis by identifying routes, infrastructure, and areas of interest that may be exploited by trafficking organizations. This information assists law enforcement agencies in developing informed, intelligence-led approaches to interdiction and disruption activities.

Teams maintain close coordination with supported law enforcement agencies, providing regular reporting and real-time updates as required. Observations are documented through written reports, imagery, and geospatial products to support ongoing investigations and analytical efforts.

In addition, ground reconnaissance teams may support training and capability development by sharing best practices in observation, reporting, and field awareness, consistent with program authorities and law enforcement requirements.

By delivering disciplined reconnaissance, accurate reporting, and enhanced situational awareness, National Guard Counterdrug ground reconnaissance teams provide a force-multiplying capability that supports law enforcement efforts to counter drug trafficking while operating within clearly defined legal and operational boundaries.