Host Nation Rider Program

The Host Nation Rider Program provides National Guard members on U. S. counterdrug aircraft conducting counterdrug and/or counter-narco terroism and Air Bridge Denial operations over various South and Central American countries. Mandated by host nations, counterdrug flights are required to have a host nation rider (HNR) on board. The HNR monitors activity and coordinates with host nation law enforcement agencies and/or military organizations. In an effort to overcome the language barrier between flight crews and HNRs, a U.S. interpreter, a Host Nation Rider Escort (HNRE), is required on all counterdrug flights. The National Guard HNRE acts as an on board liaison/interpreter coordinating with Host Nation law enforcement personnel and providing training to the HNR personnel aboard the aircraft.