SACRAMENTO — Eleven military leaders from Mexico’s defense department visited Sacramento the week of Jan. 26, 2026, to observe California National Guard operations. The visit was part of a military exchange program to share skills in public safety and disaster response.
During the visit, California officials showed the group equipment like rescue helicopters, firefighting planes, and drones used to monitor wildfires.
A Formal Collaboration Plan
The partnership was established through the federal State Partnership Program, which links state National Guards with foreign militaries. This initiative created a long-term plan for the California National Guard to work with DEFENSA, the department in charge of Mexico’s Army and Air Force.
This cooperation has already helped both neighbors respond to emergencies together. Earlier in January, specialized Mexican military firefighters and disaster relief workers helped California fight wildfires.
Economic and Cultural Ties
According to state officials, strong business connections support the military partnership. Mexico is California’s second-largest global trading partner, with trade totaling $97.8 billion. Mexican-owned businesses in the state also provide more than 13,800 jobs.
The Guard itself reflects California’s cultural ties, with nearly 40% of its members identifying as Latino or Hispanic.
Drug Enforcement and Staffing Changes
During the visit, Mexican leaders also reviewed the work of the California National Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force. Since 2021, the unit has seized more than 35,065 pounds of fentanyl and 51.8 million pills. State officials estimate those drugs are worth $498.4 million on the street.
However, the task force's staffing has recently become a point of controversy. A presidential order moved nearly a third of the task force’s members to Los Angeles.
In a press release, state officials called the order an illegal use of National Guard troops in Los Angeles. They also warned the move leaves fewer members to stop drugs across the rest of the state.
