Security forces strengthen ties between Kentucky Air Guard and Ecuadorian military

Two members of the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Security Forces Squadron recently conducted an information exchange event with the Ecuadorian Armed Forces, strengthening ties by sharing perspectives on military police operations.

The event, held in Guayaquil, Ecuador, from Feb. 22 to 28, featured an open-forum discussion that covered tactics, techniques and procedures on such subjects as the use of force, counterinsurgency and riot control, according to Master Sgt. David Getty and Tech. Sgt. Jared Reynolds.

“Headed to the exchange, we hoped to gain insight into how our partner conducted their own training and operations to meet the needs of their country, and to understand both the barriers and solutions to accomplishing their mission,” Getty said.

The event was staged as part of the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program. The program pairs National Guard units from the 54 states and territories with the militaries of foreign allies for mutual cooperation across a full range of military and civil affairs.

Representatives from all three branches of the Ecuadorian Armed Forces — Army, Navy and Air Force — participated in the discussions. From the outset, the Ecuadorians showed keen interest in how military policing operations are conducted in the United States, drawing direct comparisons to their own capabilities and operational constraints.

Ecuador’s evolving security environment and political landscape have shaped how its military approaches use of force, sparking substantive dialogue throughout the week, Gettys said.

Beyond classroom discussion, both delegations incorporated practical demonstrations whenever possible — an approach that significantly enhanced understanding of the topics covered.

“This exchange gave us the opportunity to strengthen relationships with our Ecuadorian partners while sharing best practices in military police operations,” Getty said. “Through discussions on tactics, use of force, counterinsurgency and riot control, both teams gained insight that enhances interoperability, readiness and mutual understanding.

“Programs like the State Partnership Program help build lasting partnerships that support regional security and cooperation,” he added.

Now in its fourth decade, the State Partnership Program sponsors interactions with more than 100 nations. The Kentucky National Guard has been partnered with Ecuador since 1996.

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