The United States Air Force announced today that it has selected Madison’s Truax Field, home of the 115th Fighter Wing of the Air National Guard, as one of two sites that will receive state-of-the-art, next-generation F-35A aircraft.
“I congratulate the dedicated men and women of the 115th Fighter Wing. I have been proud to play a lead role within the Wisconsin Congressional delegation advocating for the 115th, and I am pleased that the Air Force has recognized the tremendous strategic, geographic and economic capabilities that Truax offers,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Madison) in a statement. “The 115th Fighter Wing plays an essential role in protecting the safety and security of Wisconsin and our nation. I am excited about Truax’s selection for this new mission and the enduring benefit it will provide to our economy and the State of Wisconsin.”
Madison had been one of five finalist sites previously announced by the Air Force in December 2016.
“We are extremely proud and excited about today’s announcement for the 1,200 airmen of the 115th Fighter Wing, as well as for Greater Madison’s economy,” said Madison Chamber of Commerce President Zach Brandon in a statement today. “The selection of the 115th to receive the F-35A ensures the benefits of the base – including $100 million in annual economic impact, emergency services for Dane County Regional Airport and tuition support for area students who serve in the Guard – will remain in Greater Madison for decades to come.
“This selection would not have been possible without years of commitment from the Wisconsin Air National Guard, the leadership of the 115th, the advocacy of Wisconsin’s congressional delegation, state leaders and local elected officials from Dane County, the Chamber’s partnership with the Badger Air Community Council and everyone who has shown their support through the Together Truax initiative,” Brandon added. “We are incredibly thankful to all of them for their hard work and dedication to making this day a reality.”
