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New York Naval Militia conducts training in the Hudson River from May 30 to June 2 near Iona Island.

Routine training missions will give patrol boat crews the opportunity to hone their skills

CAMP SMITH, New York (05/28/2026) — The New York Naval Militia and New York National Guard will be conducting maritime training exercises in the Hudson River in the vicintiy of Iona Island State Park and Georges Island from May 30 to June 2.

The training is part of Empire Challenge 2026 which involves a command post exercise at Camp Smith Training Site and drills by New York National Guard emergency responders.

The training will involve the presence of several New York Naval Militia patrol boats, as well as the use of drone aircraft.

Residents, visitors and boaters can expect to see the maritime operations being conducted on the river. Boaters and mariners are asked to keep a safe distance from the Naval Militia vessels.

The New York Naval Militia is a maritime state defense force with a strength of over 3,000 personnel. Most of these members are concurrently members of the Navy Reserve, the Marine Corps Reserve and the Coast Guard Reserve.

The Naval Militia's Military Emergency Boat service operates a fleet of 11 patrol boats, including two landing craft style boats which can be used to transport people and supplied by water.

The planned exercise is designed to enhance the operational readiness, navigational skills and emergency response capabilities of New York Naval Militia personnel. The drill will also involve establishing a command post on Iona Island.

The New York National Guard has coordinated with local public safety and maritime officials.

Media Attachments

Naval Militia Boat in the Niagara River .

A New York Naval Militia patrol boat underway in the Niagara River during Empire Challenge 2025 on June 1, 2025.

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