Pentagon plans to create military 'reaction force' for civil unrest

The Trump administration is reviewing a Pentagon proposal to create a "Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force" of 600 National Guard troops, split into two 300-member units based in Alabama and Arizona, covering regions east and west of the Mississippi River.

Internal documents reveal the force could deploy within one hour to U.S. cities facing protests or unrest, operating under Title 32 status, allowing federal funding but state governor control. Costs could reach hundreds of millions if military aircraft are used, though commercial airlines are suggested to reduce tension.

The plan, tested in 2020 with 600 troops on alert pre-election, relies on a U.S. Code section bypassing domestic military restrictions. Trump recently deployed 800 D.C. Guard troops for crime and 5,000 to Los Angeles. Documents highlight burnout, reduced state emergency capacity, and political friction if governors resist. The force, equipped with riot gear, awaits Hegseth’s review, with a potential 2027 start.