State Defense Forces (SDFs) are military units that operate under the authority of individual U.S. states. They are separate from the National Guard and are typically composed of volunteers who assist in local emergencies, disaster response, and community support. SDFs can be activated by state governors during times of need, such as natural disasters or civil unrest. Each state has its own SDF, and they often focus on specific missions that align with state needs. While they do not have the same federal status as the National Guard, SDFs play a crucial role in enhancing state readiness and providing additional resources for public safety and security.