Hegseth authorizes military vehicles for Washington National Guard
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed memos approving the use of tactical vehicles and boats by Guard troops in the capital, a move that expands their visible presence.
By Harper Collins ·
Residents and commuters in Washington, D.C., will see more military equipment on city streets following approvals signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Two memos dated Oct. 29 authorize the National Guard to deploy 60 police cars, tactical vehicles, patrol boats, and portable light towers. This expansion allows troops to conduct visibility patrols with a more robust equipment profile than previously permitted in certain contexts.
The memos permit Guard members to carry rifles during specific operations, although weapons remain restricted in Metro rail stations. Vehicles used for these patrols must be clearly marked as National Guard, and all troops must wear uniforms. The guidance explicitly forbids military personnel from engaging in high-speed chases. Two patrol boats will be assigned to provide maritime support in the area.
Hegseth stated that the total number of deployed Guard members will remain capped at 3,500. This figure is lower than the peak of approximately 5,000 troops present during the summer 250th anniversary celebrations. The increased equipment usage is part of a broader effort to support local law enforcement in addressing crime and organized drug distribution within the capital.
Six analysts will continue to work on organized drug distribution issues. Troops assisting in anti-gang and drug operations are now authorized to carry rifles in addition to their standard issue pistols. The memos also grant the U.S. Marshals Service access to the 260th Special Purpose Brigade. This unit, which functions as a quick reaction force, will help protect key federal leaders and secure federal facilities.
A separate memo dated Nov. 4 denied a request from the Marshals Service for helicopters or troops to clean up abandoned tires in specific parts of the city. The Pentagon confirmed that Hegseth authorized the continued use of Guard personnel to support the Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission. The approval comes as the National Guard's integration with local police deepens.
The deployment has faced legal challenges. The District of Columbia sued in September 2025, arguing that the mobilization is an illegal use of the military for domestic law enforcement. A federal appeals court panel heard arguments on Oct. 14 after a lower court ruled in favor of the city. The legal dispute continues while the expanded patrols proceed.
Currently, nearly 3,100 Guard members from various states are stationed in Washington. More than 500 of these troops are from Georgia, which sends the largest contingent after the District of Columbia itself. As of Monday, 514 members from the District were involved in the operation. The presence of tactical vehicles and armed troops echoes the initial deployment in August 2025, when the Guard first arrived for what President Donald Trump described as a crime-fighting mission.
