US, Saudi Arabia partnership turns 42 years old

By Ms. Adriane FossOctober 6, 2015

Saudi Arabia, U.S. partnership turns 42 years old
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of the National Guard troops conduct helicopter training. U.S. service members and civilians assigned to the Office of the Program Manager-Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program provide advice and assistance in mod... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (April 1, 2015) -- The U.S. Army's Office of the Program Manager-Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program marked the 42nd anniversary of its partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of the National Guard on March 19.

OPM-SANG's core mission remains virtually unchanged for nearly a half-century -- to maintain and enhance the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States. To do this, OPM-SANG uses military and civilian teams assigned to Saudi Arabia to provide advice and assistance in modernizing the MNG, formerly known as the Saudi Arabian National Guard. This modernization encompasses training, equipment, maintenance, supply, procurement, management, organization, health care and facilities.

The MNG is one of two, full-time active armies in the Kingdom and is on a path to achieve an end-strength of 120,000. Its roots date back to the late King Abdul-Aziz's original White Army, and its stated mission is to assist with the defense of the kingdom.

"Our partnership reflects the commitment of our nation to regional stability through our long-term presence of U.S. Soldiers and civilians who assist in the modernization efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Brig. Gen. Paul Laughlin, OPM-SANG program manager.

Headquartered outside of Riyadh, OPM-SANG is a unique organization in that it is fully funded by the Saudi Arabian government through foreign military sales cases executed by the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command and U.S. Army Materiel Command.

The Army has maintained its special relationship between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States through the OPM-SANG program since 1973. Specifically, the Army and OPM assisted the MNG in modernizing from a small infantry and cavalry force to a force of 11 brigades, capable of land combat operations. The cumulative program value exceeds $35 billion.

"I am extremely proud of the effort and professionalism of our OPM-SANG team; we are a small organization of around 300 people who are making strategic level contributions in support of our nation's interests in the region," Laughlin said. "This is a significant mission that requires both a high level of diplomacy and dedication, and greatly benefits both countries."

One Soldier contributing to that mission described it as a great opportunity to make a difference.

"With very few exceptions, we work with every MNG unit that has medics, advising their Soldiers, NCOs and commanders," said Maj. Chris Peterson, senior medical operations adviser. "Sometimes the pace as an adviser-diplomat can be a little hectic, but it is a great honor to have the responsibility to represent the U.S. Army and Medical Command to our MNG counterparts, and as an American to the Saudi people."

Laughlin called the modernization program a security assistance success story. He said trust, real friendships and the competency of advisers have made the program one that can be modeled throughout the world.

"We are very pleased to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of our lasting partnership with the MNG," Laughlin said.

Related Links:

Army.mil: National Guard News

U.S. Army Security Assistance Command