New ND Air National Guard detachment to support B-52 operations at Minot Air Force Base

MINOT, N.D. (KVRR) —  Military leaders are establishing a second North Dakota Air National Guard detachment to support operations at Minot Air Force Base.

Gov. Kelly Armstrong says the B-52 Operational Classic Association detachment was approved by U.S. Air Force Headquarters last week.

The Guard’s 219th Security Forces Squadron works jointly with active-duty Air Force personnel to provide security for the missile field complex.

The new detachment involving the 5th Bomb Wing and Guard’s 119th Wing will augment portions of the B-52 mission at the base.

They’ll have around 40 personnel by October 1, 2026.

“Minot Air Force Base and the North Dakota Air National Guard are always exceeding the standard and setting new expectations of what it means to serve in our military,” Armstrong said. “The military in North Dakota continues to play a critical role in our national security, ensuring peace through strength, and this new detachment reinforces that role.”