Indy Standard

U.S. Senators Todd Young and Mike Crapo have introduced the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act, aimed at maintaining the U.S. Air Force's fighter force structure. The legislation seeks to prioritize the recapitalization of 39 combat-coded fighter squadrons under the Secretary of Defense's command for global response capabilities. Currently, 15 out of 25 Air National Guard Squadrons lack recapitalization plans. The bill mandates that the U.S. Air Force establish such plans for these units, including Indiana's 122nd Air Wing.

Senator Young emphasized the importance of military readiness: "Our military’s readiness and ability to respond to global threats depend on maintaining highly-trained and capable forces." He noted that the bill will help safeguard Air National Guard units like the 122nd Fighter Wing in Ft. Wayne.

Senator Crapo highlighted national defense concerns: "Highly-trained, experienced and prepared forces are a key component of our country’s national defense." He stressed that preserving National Guard fighter squadrons is crucial amid threats from countries like Russia, China, and Iran.

The legislation has garnered support from several other senators across party lines, including John Hickenlooper, Jim Risch, Mark Kelly, Jim Banks, Elissa Slotkin, Rick Scott, Gary Peters, Angela Alsobrooks, Ted Cruz, Chris Van Hollen, Amy Klobuchar, Michael Bennet, Alex Padilla, Tina Smith, and Ruben Gallego.