General briefs AFA about future of unit

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Luke Olson
  • 114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. --  The South Dakota Air National Guard hosted a luncheon for the Air Force Association at the 114th Fighter Wing, June 25. Members and guests of the AFA were presented a briefing by guest speaker Brig. Gen. Matt Jamison, South Dakota National Guard's assistant adjutant general for air.

The AFA event was meant to expose AFA members and South Dakota congressional staff members on what's happening with the developing mission of the F-35 aircraft said Maj. Kevin E. Miller, AFA Dacotah Chapter #229 secretary.

"We wanted to educate members on some of the advanced technological capabilities associated with the F-35 and how replacing our current F-16 aircraft would enhance the fighter mission here at the 114th Fighter Wing," said Miller.
  
Air Combat Command is slated to make a decision on basing and beddown of the aircraft in the spring of 2016. They are conducting a 'data call' this summer on ANG bases nationwide and grading the bases on several criteria: environment, airspace, facilities, runway, weather, community support, and cost.

ACC's goal is to field the F-35 aircraft at locations now hosting fighters and in squadron sizes closely matching those of the legacy units to minimize the cost of conversion.

"Today was a great opportunity to discuss the future of the Air Guard and how to remain relevant for years to come," said Jamison.