The Arizona National Guard’s only infantry battalion is being deployed overseas for the first time in 10 years. 

Approximately 400 Arizona National Guard soldiers will be deployed overseas for “Operation Spartan Shield.” The operation is headquartered in Kuwait.

Capt. Aaron Thacker, a Guard spokesman, said they are being deployed to conduct security force operations.

“So it’s not uncommon for units like the Arizona National Guard or units within the Arizona National Guard to be tapped in order to go fulfill a rotational role," said Thacker. "So the role they are in currently is a rotational role.”

Thacker said troops will spend several months preparing for the assignment, but he would not say how long boots will be on the ground.