(FORT WAYNE) - Indiana's congressional delegation is asking the U.S. Air Force to base future F-35 fighter jets at the Indiana Air National Guard's 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne.
The request was led by Senator Todd Young and Congressman Marlin Stutzman in a letter to Air Force Secretary Dr. Troy Meink.
Lawmakers say the Fort Wayne unit recently completed its transition from A-10 aircraft to F-16 fighter jets and exceeded training and readiness goals during that process. They argue that success shows the wing is capable of taking on another aircraft transition.
The delegation also pointed to the wing's support of training and combat missions, international military partnerships, and strong staffing levels. Lawmakers say the unit is staffed at 108 percent and has a retention rate above 90 percent.
The letter also highlights Indiana's growing role in military aviation and drone technology development.
The lawmakers are urging the Air Force to consider Fort Wayne as it decides where future F-35 aircraft will be based.