MIL Security Engine-1

Source: United States Army

WASHINGTON — Senior leaders from the 1st Cavalry Division discussed the unit’s ongoing transformation efforts, emphasizing readiness, integration, and modernization during their Army Current Operations Engagement Tour (ACOET) at the Cannon House Office Building, April 14, 2026.

The 1st Cavalry Division is actively reorganizing formations, integrating new technologies, and refining doctrine to ensure it can fight and win in large-scale combat operations. The division applies lessons from recent training and ongoing global conflicts to rapidly adapt how it fights, focusing on long-range fires, data integration, counter-unmanned systems, and sustainment.

The division is currently one of the Army’s largest divisions with 22,000 soldiers and growing toward 24,000 personnel as it restructures into a fully integrated combined arms formation. Its force includes armored brigade combat teams, a Stryker brigade, division artillery (DIVARTY), and aviation and sustainment units.

Leaders emphasized the necessity of training as a complete division, not just as separate brigades, at the ACOET to Congressional leaders.

“We brought the division to the National Training Center because one of the things that we realized is that brigades don’t fight alone,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas M. Feltey, commanding general, 1st Cavalry Division. “We all fight together as a combined arms team. That’s what makes it so special.”

Col. Jose A. Reyes, commander, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, stated that the transformation is a comprehensive effort spanning doctrine, organization, training, and equipment.

“When you think about the Army’s continuous transformation, it’s not just about spending money on cool things,” Reyes said. “We have been working closely with the Army to upgrade and update our Army’s warfighting doctrine, especially for armoured formations, so that we fight the way that we want to fight.”

Division Artillery remains central to the division’s strategy, using long-range precision fires to enable maneuver forces to advance.

Feltey explained that the division acts as a decisive enabler for the joint force, using its combat power to secure strategic ground from which its long-range precision fires can support other military branches.

The division is also working to connect its sensors, networks, and command systems to deliver real-time battlefield data to leaders at lower echelons, enabling faster and more informed decisions.

“The challenge is, how do we take all this data that all our sensors are gathering and package it up into something usable and then transfer it to the intelligence enterprise?” Reyes asked. “If I can get it there, then I can use it for targeting.”

To counter the widespread use of small, low-cost drones, the division is developing a layered defense. While leaders report that detection capabilities are improving, the ability to defeat these systems remains a challenge.

“What we’re really concerned about also is Group two and Group one threat… very hard to detect and then defeat,” said Col. Nicholas H. Dvonch, the Division Artillery commander. “In the detection space, we found the use of acoustic sensors and passive sensors to be highly effective. The defeat portion is a much harder problem to solve.”

Leaders are experimenting with kinetic solutions to destroy these threats, particularly at close range. One of the most promising systems being tested is a fully automated weapon designed to protect vehicles from an imminent drone attack.

“One example is [a system that] uses a tungsten shotgun round where there’s no human that has to be in the loop. It can automatically slew and fire right to defeat at the very last second what’s about to hit a vehicle,” said Dvonch.

Sustainment in contested environments is another critical component of the transformation. Reyes said his brigade maintained a high state of readiness during its recent National Training Center rotation despite a demanding operational tempo.

“We fought consistently with about eighty four percent readiness rate for all of our vehicles,” he said. “We did, we did dip at one point to about sixty six percent, and then we left the National Training Center with ninety percent of our equipment working, which is pretty great.”

The division is adapting its medical support for scenarios where immediate evacuation is not possible.

“We don’t think the ‘golden hour’ is going to exist much longer,” Reyes said. “So we’re training our medics for prolonged care so they could treat their wounded longer and keep them alive longer.”

While unmanned systems are being integrated across the force, leaders noted their limitations during fast-paced offensive operations.

“There’s certainly value in it and we learned the limitations of that and some of our current UAS systems is that they can’t keep up with the tempo of an armored brigade,” Reyes said. “When we’re on the offense and we want to attack, and we want to keep the enemy on their heels, it’s harder to utilize them in that way.”

Leaders stressed that these transformation efforts are urgent and ongoing, driven by observations of the modern battlefield.

“This is a now problem, right? It’s not what we’re going to do in ten years,” Feltey said. “‘We need to innovate now. The battlefield is changing faster than ever.’”

Reyes affirmed that every aspect of the transformation is focused on a single goal: ensuring the division is ready to deploy and fight at a moment’s notice.

Source: United States Army

MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. – The California National Guard’s Hap Arnold Innovation Center brought together military, federal and industry partners for a Defense Contract Management Agency Blue List small Unmanned Aircraft Systems training, collaboration and networking event April 14 that reinforced a whole-of-government approach to accelerating drone capabilities for the warfighter.

“Drones represent one of the most significant battlefield innovations of our time,” said Tommy Cheng, Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Blue List assessor and engineer.

The event included more than 70 representatives from Team March, the National Guard Bureau, Naval Special Warfare, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, California Counter Drug Task Force, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 and several other stakeholders who exchanged ideas, evaluated emerging technologies and bridged the gap between innovation and operational application. The training emphasized the rapidly evolving field of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems and the importance of integrating trusted sourcing to meet future mission demands.

“Each agency is good at operating in silos and has different objectives, but we need to communicate across services. The goal is to be the one place for warfighters to get their hands on capable and advanced drones through our marketplace at scale,” said Capt. Reginold Slater, DCMA Blue List assessor.

Under the old procurement system, only two vendors existed; under the new DMCA Blue List screening, 40 new vendors have been approved, allowing end users to receive arms with drastically reduced acquisition delays.

The Hap Arnold Innovation Center is an innovation hub of the California Guard’s 163rd Attack Wing. It helps develop military technology, such as small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. It has also adapted the MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted aircraft from a lethal expeditionary platform to a life-saving role in domestic operations, such as fighting wildfires from the air with imagery and mapping of fire areas.

Participants in the training engaged with more than 20 drone platforms and accessories, gaining hands-on experience with systems ranging from First-Person View configurations to mission-adaptable platforms. These engagements highlighted the need for smarter procurement strategies and adaptable systems that can scale across a range of operational environments.

“It’s absolutely necessary to have these forums. We are interchanging mission needs from multiple agencies to come away with adaptive solutions for the collective mission and unique capabilities,” said Master Sgt. Charles Rodriguez from the Hap Arnold Innovation Center and the 196th Attack Squadron sensor operator.

The training directly supports the objectives outlined in Executive Order 14307 and the Secretary of War’s drone dominance directive, which call for rapid development, procurement and fielding of unmanned systems. By aligning stakeholders and streamlining acquisition pathways, the DCMA and its partners are accelerating the integration of cost-effective, scalable small Unmanned Aircraft Systems capabilities into the force.

Maj. Adam Lucero, director of the Hap Arnold Innovation Center, emphasized the importance of working together to achieve long-term success.

“It’s about joint collaboration, not competition between agencies. We have the same problems and the same goals. Together, we can rapidly advance technological solutions while also reducing duplication of efforts. Drone dominance is not achieved in isolation, but rather our joint efforts can be combined to create new real-world mission impacts for today’s and tomorrow’s warfighter,” Lucero said.

Leaders and Airmen from the 163rd Attack Wing, including Col. Daniel Vargas, deputy commander, participated alongside mission partners to strengthen interoperability and ensure readiness in an increasingly contested and technology-driven battlespace.

“This session provided valuable insight into how DCMA has created a huge step toward streamlining acquisition while ensuring compliance with evolving security standards, ultimately helping put trusted technology into the hands of our warfighters more quickly,” Vargas said.

“Leveraging the innovation ecosystem within the Hap Arnold Innovation Center, we are committed to advancing integration and capability development. Events like this accelerate alignment, foster collaboration and help translate emerging technologies into operational advantage,” Vargas said.

As the small Unmanned Aircraft Systems landscape continues to evolve, events like the Blue List training serve as a critical nexus for innovation, collaboration and action – ensuring the joint force remains agile, informed and ready to maintain a competitive edge. This underscores the 163rd’s commitment to its strategic priority of ready now and tomorrow, through an innovative approach to mission achievement while being grounded in expertise.

Related Links

The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil

State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil

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Source: United States Army

CAMP WILLIAMS, Utah — The Utah Army National Guard activated the 1st Battalion, 204th Infantry Regiment during a ceremony April 18, marking the state’s first traditional light infantry battalion in more than a century and a major shift in its force structure.

The ceremony, conducted at Tarbet Field, included the uncasing of the battalion colors and an assumption of command, symbolizing both the unit’s official establishment and the transfer of responsibility to its inaugural commander, Lt. Col. Steve Pagoaga.

Maj. Gen. Daniel Boyack, the adjutant general of Utah, said the battalion’s creation reflects both intent and investment at the highest levels of the Army.

“This battalion did not just happen by chance,” Boyack said. “This is a result of years of advocacy and collaboration coming together today.”

He added that Utah’s selection for the mission reflects the state’s performance and reputation.

“Utah was chosen for this mission for a reason—because of our reputation to recruit, retain, and excel at every mission we’ve been given,” he said.

“This is a new battalion, no culture and no reputation. You will build both,” Boyack said. “What you do will define this battalion for years to come.”

The activation represents the culmination of years of planning and effort by Utah National Guard leaders to bring an infantry capability to the state. The battalion, consisting of nearly 600 Soldiers across multiple locations, significantly enhances Utah’s ability to respond to both overseas combat missions and domestic emergencies.

“This marks a historic day in Utah—standing up and activating the 1st Battalion, 204th Infantry Regiment, the first of its kind in the state,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Mayes, 204th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade.

The 1-204th Infantry Regiment falls under the 204th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, with elements based in Ogden, Logan, Tooele and St. George. Infantrymen assigned to the unit are equipped with modern platforms, including Infantry Squad Vehicles and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, designed to increase speed and mobility on the battlefield.

Boyack emphasized the battalion’s role in future conflict and domestic response. “You are designed for that future warfare, not the past,” he said. “We’re building a force that is lighter, faster and more lethal, able to move quickly, decide under pressure, and win on a changing battlefield.” “When our communities face crisis—man-made or natural—you will respond disciplined, capable and ready,” Boyack added. “A force that the people of Utah can rely on.”

During the ceremony, leaders emphasized not only the operational importance of the unit, but also its impact on the force and the state.

“These Soldiers are going to have the chance to set the culture of a brand-new unit,” Mayes said. “You don’t get that very often in your career.”

In addition to senior leadership, junior enlisted Soldiers also reflected on the significance of the moment. Spc. Harrison Kent, a team leader in the new battalion, said the activation represents a rare opportunity in a Soldier’s career.

“This is something that’s pretty historic. Not many people can really say across their military careers that they’ve gotten the chance to do this,” Kent said.

Kent said the new unit offers both freedom and responsibility as it establishes its identity. “You get the opportunity to show up and try new things … you’re establishing the culture,” he said.

He added that the infantry remains a constant even as warfare evolves.

“The infantry is a special place … it’s always going to be there,” Kent said. In addition to its federal mission to deploy and fight the nation’s wars, the 1-204th brings expanded capabilities for in-state response, including wildfire support, disaster relief and search-and-rescue operations.

“It brings innovation into the state and the capability of manpower and speed for any type of emergency response,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Garrett Whatcott, 1st Battalion, 204th Infantry Regiment.

The assumption of command formally placed the command team of Pagoaga and Whatcott at the helm of the newly formed unit, charging them with building readiness, cohesion and a warfighting culture from the ground up. “I am deeply honored to serve as your inaugural battalion commander,” said Lt. Col. Steve Pagoaga. “Together, we will forge a unit ready for anything.”

Pagoaga said the battalion’s mission is grounded in lethality and discipline. “The infantry’s sacred mission is clear: close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver to destroy or capture them,” he said. “We will train relentlessly, master the basics, and uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.”

He added that the unit’s foundation will define its future legacy. “What you tolerate will become your standard,” Pagoaga said. “If you demand excellence, you’re going to build a unit worthy of the mission.”

The 1-204th is also part of the Army’s broader transformation initiative, placing it at the forefront of developing and refining modern light infantry tactics. Leaders noted that the unit will play a key role in shaping how the Army fights in future conflicts.

“This battalion is going to be on the cutting edge of formations, with some of the newest equipment and capabilities the Army has to offer,” Mayes said.

As he concluded his remarks, Boyack charged the Soldiers with building a lasting legacy. “You are the first. You are setting the bar by which all that follow will be judged,” he said. “Build something that the people of Utah will trust and that your enemies will fear.”

With the official activation complete, the 1-204th Infantry Regiment now begins the next phase — building combat power, training for future missions, and establishing a legacy for generations of Utah Soldiers to come.

Related Links

The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil

State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil

The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard

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The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard

The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard

The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard

Source: United States Army

BARRIGADA, Guam – Guam National Guardsmen are supporting recovery efforts and overseeing traffic control after Typhoon Sinlaku’s slow crawl through the Pacific April 13-15 brought substantial damage to Guam and the northern Mariana Islands, leaving many residents still without power or water a week after the storm hit.

Guam Army and Guam Air National Guardsmen have established and are staffing traffic control points at key intersections and affected roadways to ensure the steady, safe movement of emergency vehicles, utility crews and residents.

However, their responsibilities extend beyond issuing stop-and-go signals and include general driver and pedestrian safety.

“As a road guard, we aren’t just controlling the flow of traffic, we are also trained and able to respond to events that may be out of the ordinary,” said Staff Sgt. Edward Babauta, Army bandsman for the 721st Army Band, Guam National Guard. “We are here to assist local law enforcement and first responders with ensuring the overall safety of our people.”

Each traffic control point is staffed by three or four Guardsmen who rotate every 30 minutes during 12-hour shifts. Although only one of them is directing traffic at a time, they must all remain alert and vigilant for any suspicious or unusual activity, Babauta said.

Their presence not only reinforces coordination with local authorities but also provides reassurance to the public during a time of uncertainty.

“We are activated for the people of Guam,” Babauta said. “That’s what we are here for, to assist our community in any way necessary.”

Related Links

The Official Website of the National Guard | NationalGuard.mil

State Partnership Program | NationalGuard.mil

The National Guard on Facebook | Facebook.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Flickr | Flickr.com/TheNationalGuard

The National Guard on Instagram | Instagram.com/us.nationalguard

The National Guard on X | X.com/USNationalGuard

The National Guard on YouTube | YouTube.com/TheNationalGuard