U.S. Sen. Tim Scott joined Sen. Graham and the entire South Carolina congressional delegation in a letter pressing the Air Force to station F-35A fighters at McEntire Joint National Guard Base.
WASHINGTON — The South Carolina congressional delegation is asking the Department of the Air Force to select McEntire Joint National Guard Base as a future home for the F-35A fighter jet.
U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., joined Sen. Graham, R-S.C., and U.S. Representatives Sheri Biggs, Joe Wilson, Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, James Clyburn, Russell Fry and William Timmons on a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink, according to Scott’s office.
The letter argues that South Carolina Air National Guard leadership has coordinated with state and federal officials to prepare McEntire for the F-35A, pointing to the readiness and combat record of the 169th Fighter Wing.
“The South Carolina Air National Guard’s 169th Fighter Wing is a national model for excellence and readiness. After a decade of strategic preparation, the 169th Fighter Wing has the infrastructure and personnel to welcome F-35s. Add in a state and community that have unwavering support for our military, and you’ve got a match made in heaven,” Scott said.
Sen. Graham said the base is “uniquely equipped to house the F-35A” and credited state leadership with ensuring McEntire’s readiness.
Rep. Biggs, who led the letter with Graham, said McEntire has spent decades building “purpose driven infrastructure and a top-rated airspace.”
Rep. Wilson cited the 169th Fighter Wing’s role in homeland defense operations, including Operation Epic Fury, while flying legacy F-16s.
Rep. Mace said the wing “has spent decades proving it’s among the best in the nation.” Rep. Norman referenced the unit’s history as the Swamp Foxes. Rep. Clyburn, who represents the district containing McEntire, said South Carolina’s installations play a pivotal role in national defense.
Rep. Fry said no facility in the country is “better equipped or more operationally ready” to host the aircraft, and Rep. Timmons said “the F-35 belongs at McEntire.”
The full letter was made available through Scott’s office.
Based on a release from U.S. Sen. Tim Scott.
Source: U.S. Sen. Tim Scott original release.
