WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, the Secretary of the Air Force announced that the 187^th Air National Guard Fighter Wing Unit at Dannelly Field in Montgomery, Alabama, was selected as one of two new sites to receive the new F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. The F-35 decision builds on the long and proud history of the 187^th  Guard Unit which is also home to the historic Tuskegee Airmen Red Tail Fighters. As a result of the decision, the City of Montgomery and the River Region will receive approximately $3 billion in new capital investment and $70 million in new construction. The delivery of the F-35 fighter jets is slated for 2023.

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Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) releases the following statement:

“What amazing news! I am thrilled that our district’s 187^th Air National Guard Fighter Wing Unit will become the first home in the Southeast to F-35 fighter jets,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am so proud of the unit commanders, federal, local and state leaders, and all those in Montgomery and the River Region community for working together to win the F-35 competition. The F-35 builds on the legacy of military excellence exhibited by the 187th Fighter Wing, which is home to the famed ‘Red Tails.’ Today’s decision will be a major economic boost for Alabama’s economy. This means new investments, new jobs, and a better future for our state, the City of Montgomery, and the River Region.”

In the House of Representatives, Rep. Sewell has been a stalwart advocate for bringing the F-35 to the 187th Air National Guard Fighter Wing. As a Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Rep. Sewell has a unique perspective on the challenges and national security threats that the United States faces.

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Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) is serving her fourth term representing Alabama’s 7th Congressional district. She sits on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and was recently appointed to the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Sewell is a Chief Deputy Whip and serves on the prestigious Steering and Policy Committee of the Democratic Caucus. She is also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, and Vice Chair of Outreach for the New Democrat Coalition.