Military working dogs (MWDs) and local law enforcement agencies often have a close relationship as their missions and operations regularly cross over. This relationship is no better captured than when the 316th Security Forces Squadron MWD section at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, collaborated with the Maryland State Police Aviation Command.

The training of the MWDs allows them to get familiar with operational aircraft so that they are calm and prepared for deployment on real operations. This involves getting experience of the platform, its engines and ground movement. The sounds and smells of a helicopter can be loud and alarming to an untrained MWD, so they are introduced and conditioned to the aircraft at an early stage to ensure they don’t become agitated or uncontrollable on a live mission, which could result in a disastrous outcome.

Handlers for 10 dogs with four Maryland State Police officers participated in this training event, which occurs semi-annually. The training prioritizes the wellbeing of the dogs with robust safety protocols.

The Maryland State Police Aviation Command has been serving since 1954 when it acquired its first two-seat airplane. The aircraft that it currently operates – and was being used for this exercise – is its Leonardo AW139. Beyond interagency training with dogs, Maryland State Police Aviation Command conducts missions 24 hours a day, which include helicopter emergency medical services, law enforcement, search and rescue, homeland security, and disaster assessment services for the people of Maryland and its neighbors.

Although this training is not required under Air Force Instruction, the 316th Security Forces Squadron actively looks for opportunities that will both improve its skill set and forge a connection with local agencies. Aircraft familiarization of the MWDs has been a priority for 316th Security Forces Squadron dog handlers, as their missions can require abrupt deployments that involve aerial operations. Most commonly, K-9s are shuttled around by helicopter to get to remote locations, medical emergencies, and joint taskings. Also, the Air Force MWDs and handlers can be tasked to deploy with the other branches within the US Department of Defense (DoD), such as the US Army.

Pictured are four military working dogs (MWDs): Yoci, Narko, Inga and Rreno. These MWDs of the 316th Security Forces Squadron are being conditioned to the sights, smells and sounds of a Leonardo AW139 belonging to the local Maryland State Police Aviation Command. This training familiarized them with the aircraft so they don’t get panicked or upset by transport on helicopters during live operations.

The appearance of US DoD visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.