AFGSC, JIATF-401 stage multi-command C-sUAS qualification at Camp Guernsey

Airmen from the 90th Missile Wing joined units from Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Combat Command, U.S. Strategic Command and the Air National Guard for a counter-small unmanned aircraft systems firing qualification at Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center in Wyoming, May 14-15, 2026. The event, conducted in partnership with Joint Interagency Task Force 401, focused on improving responses to rapidly evolving small drone threats.

The two-day qualification tested and sharpened operators’ ability to engage ground and aerial targets at varying distances using advanced small-arms targeting systems. The hands-on training supported department-level C-sUAS objectives while giving 90th Missile Wing personnel direct experience with emerging capabilities tied to broader Air Force Global Strike Command modernization.

“Protecting our power projection platforms is a critical component of enhancing warfighter lethality,” said Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401. “I am grateful for the partnership with the 90th Missile Wing, Air Combat Command, and Air Force Global Strike Command that is enhancing c-UAS training to keep our warfighters, installations, and critical assets safe from drone threats.”

Established in August 2025 by the Department of War, JIATF-401 leads efforts to synchronize and scale the rapid delivery of C-sUAS capabilities to defend the homeland, safeguard U.S. and allied forces, protect critical infrastructure and assist federal agencies. The task force measures success by how quickly it delivers state-of-the-art capabilities to warfighters both at home and overseas.

The qualification aligns with ongoing updates across Air Force Global Strike Command, including a shift from up-armored Humvees to Joint Light Tactical Vehicles and the replacement of UH-1N Hueys with MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters. C-sUAS training adds another layer to those changes, preparing defenders to counter emerging unmanned threats to critical assets, personnel and the intercontinental ballistic missile mission.

“The system is a game changer,” said Col. Jeremy Sheppard, 90th Security Forces Group commander. “When you hear one of our young Defenders say they feel more confident and prepared, that’s the metric that matters most to me as a commander. That confidence, born from having the best tools and training, translates directly into a more lethal and decisive force on the ground. This isn’t just about fielding new technology; it’s a direct investment from our MAJCOM (Major Command) in our most critical weapon system; the individual Defender. We are sharpening the spear at every level, and this is what it looks like.”

For participating Airmen, the course provided experience with systems intended to counter small drones and improve readiness in operational settings. “This training makes me more effective by giving me hands-on experience with systems designed to counter hostile drones,” said Senior Airman Preston Reiger, 90th Missile Security Operations Squadron sUAS/C-sUAS specialist. “It shows the wing is taking C-sUAS seriously and actively building another layer of defense to protect our mission, assets and personnel.”

Organizers said the collaboration advances capabilities to address an evolving threat environment, strengthening the 90th Missile Wing’s ability to support the nation’s ICBM mission while preparing for future security challenges.