Arkansas National Guard

The 169th Field Artillery Brigade held a media roundtable to discuss their nine-month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Spartan Shield and Operation Inherent Resolve. Key discussion points included the brigade's base defense responsibilities in Jordan, the strategic role of HIMARS for regional deterrence and partner nation interoperability, lessons learned regarding counter-UAS threats, and the utilization of the Maven system to enhance situational awareness. The briefing also touched upon the brigade's experience integrating with special operations forces and conducting exercises with regional partners.

The discussion centered on the National Guard's emergency readiness and domestic operations for the summer 2026 season. Key topics included preparedness for natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and severe flooding, as well as the National Guard's role in providing support for the World Cup across various host cities. Representatives from different states highlighted ongoing training exercises, collaborations with local and federal partners, and the integration of new technologies like small unmanned aerial systems to improve disaster response capabilities. The impact of deployments, including long-term missions in Washington D.C., was addressed, with officials confirming that readiness levels across the National Guard formations remain stable and unaffected.

The Adjutant General's Department's strategic plan updates its agency vision, mission, and intent, and defines core organizational values: teamwork, stewardship, duty, and respect. This plan aims to align the agency's efforts to be ready, relevant, and engaged in serving communities at home and abroad. Key focus areas include protecting the health and safety of citizens by applying capabilities, maximizing resources through talent development, coordinating emergency state response and disaster preparedness, and providing equipped military and civilian personnel for various operations, including domestic operations, emergency management, partnership engagement, and war fighting, all guided by its defined values.

This document outlines the mission of the Joint Staff J-5's Strategic Plans and Policy division, which is responsible for coordinating, reviewing, analyzing, developing, and communicating all strategies, plans, and policies that affect the National Guard Bureau (NG/NGB). Key aspects covered include the division's organizational structure and a compilation of strategically relevant resources.

The meeting began with introductions and logistics for conducting the virtual session via WebEx, noting that the meeting was being recorded. Key discussion points focused on RAB business, including updates on the platform change from GoToWebinar to WebEx to accommodate Spanish closed captioning, and the need for RAB members to define and vote on a project utilizing the Technical Assistance for Public Participation (TAP) grant program to hire independent technical advisors. The agenda also covered the annual RAB elections, where Mr. Lawson volunteered to continue as Community Co-Chair. Furthermore, attendees discussed a recent RAB member tour of the base facilities and shared contact information for a new Public Affairs representative. Updates were also provided on the timeline review, administrative record, and interim stormwater treatment system.