Statement by Senator McCain on Air Force Release of Draft EIS for Basing F-35 Lightning II Training Squadrons at Luke AFB

Statement

U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today issued the following statement on the U.S. Air Force's release of a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the basing of the Air Force F-35A Lightning II training squadrons with a total of as many as 144 aircraft at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona:
"I applaud the U.S. Air Force's decision to maintain Luke Air Force Base as the preferred alternative for the basing of up to six F-35A Lightning II training squadrons. This mission can continue Luke's role as the Air Force's premiere pilot training facility and underscores the unparalleled training opportunities offered in Arizona at the Barry M. Goldwater Range.

"This decision reflects the strong, decades-long and on-going commitment of the State of Arizona, and the communities and support organizations around Luke, to a mutually beneficial relationship between the Air Force and all Arizonans.

"Over the next two months, the citizens of Arizona will have an opportunity to participate in hearings and to provide comments to the Air Force about the basing of F-35s in our state. I strongly encourage an active and collaborative process to ensure that all impacts of this decision are understood and any concerns are raised and resolved. This decision is a strong testament to the national strategic value placed by the Department of Defense on the military bases and training ranges in Arizona.

"I look forward to a comprehensive study and the final record of decision in July 2012. I have every confidence the final decision will confirm the fact that Luke Air Force Base is the best choice for the new generation of Air Force aircraft represented by the F-35."

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