FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Indiana’s entire congressional delegation is urging the U.S. Air Force to consider the Indiana Air National Guard’s 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne as a future home for the F-35A fighter aircraft.
In a letter sent to Air Force Secretary Dr. Troy Meink, lawmakers highlighted the 122nd Fighter Wing’s recent transition from the A-10 Thunderbolt II to the F-16 Fighting Falcon and argued the unit has already demonstrated its ability to successfully modernize and operate advanced aircraft.
The effort was led by U.S. Senator Todd Young and Congressman Marlin Stutzman. The letter was also signed by Senator Jim Banks and every member of Indiana’s congressional delegation.
“Currently, the 122nd hosts the F-16, having completed their conversion from the A-10 earlier this year. During the conversion, the Wing exceeded Initial Operational Criteria in both aircraft available and airmen trained, in addition to meeting conversion timelines and other requirements,” the delegation wrote. “This successful conversion enabled the 122nd Fighter Wing to immediately assume active operational taskings, proving their ability to adapt, train, and overcome the immense challenges of modernizing combat capabilities. This record of operational excellence demonstrates the ability for a seamless transition to the F-35A, maximizing the Air Force’s return on critical defense investments.”
Lawmakers pointed to the 122nd’s global mission capabilities, including training operations with Slovakia through the National Guard’s State Partnership Program and growing ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a future operator of the F-35 platform.
The delegation also emphasized the strong relationship between the 122nd Fighter Wing and the Fort Wayne community.
“The bond between the State of Indiana, City of Fort Wayne and the 122nd Fighter Wing is unmatched,” the lawmakers wrote. “These entities do not merely co-exist with the Blacksnakes—they aggressively champion them. The fierce, unwavering community support translates into an environment where the wing can recruit and retain elite talent from a local population deeply dedicated to national service.”
According to the letter, the 122nd currently maintains a manning level of 108% and a retention rate exceeding 90%, while sustaining staffing levels above 100% for decades.
The delegation also noted Indiana’s growing role as a national hub for uncrewed aerial systems, advanced manufacturing, and military technology development. Lawmakers argued that pairing the F-35 mission with Indiana’s expanding defense and aviation infrastructure would further strengthen the nation’s military readiness.
“We respectfully urge you to consider our request and support the stationing of these future F-35 units at the 122nd Fighter Wing in Fort Wayne, Indiana,” the delegation wrote.
The Air Force has not announced a timeline for future F-35A basing decisions. If selected, the mission would bring one of the military’s most advanced fighter aircraft to Fort Wayne and further solidify the 122nd Fighter Wing’s role in the nation’s air defense strategy.
