Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs Chairman William Timmons (R-S.C.) addressed the significance of the National Guard State Partnership Program (SPP) during a hearing titled "The National Guard State Partnership Program: Strengthening U.S. Security, One Partnership at a Time." In his opening remarks, Timmons emphasized the program's role in enhancing security globally. He pointed out that Congress should reconsider the funding and resources allocated to support its crucial mission both domestically and internationally.
Timmons described the SPP as "one of the Department of Defense’s most effective, yet often overlooked, tools of soft power." Established in 1993 after the Cold War, it has facilitated military relationships with foreign nations and allies worldwide. The program currently includes over one hundred partnerships across every Geographic Combatant Command.
"The State Partnership Program has helped the United States deter our adversaries, enhance allied interoperability, and promote regional stability," said Timmons. He expressed hope that the hearing would highlight the program's global impact and allow subcommittee members to address any questions or concerns with experts present.
Timmons acknowledged challenges faced by the program, citing a 2022 Government Accountability Office report which identified issues related to tracking activities and clarifying legal authorities for partner nations. While assured that these issues have been resolved, he expressed interest in exploring how Congress can aid in maintaining the program's success and preventing future problems.
He also raised questions about how these partnerships align with national security priorities and how their outcomes are measured. Noting that SPP’s budget is only one percent of the overall defense security cooperation budget but accounts for nearly thirty percent of engagements with partners and allies, Timmons called for consideration of increased funding.
Concluding his remarks, Timmons thanked witnesses for their participation in the hearing.
