Op-Ed: Mission launched to bring the F-35 to the Northland

As dangerous adversaries continue to pose a threat to the United States and our allies, ensuring the readiness of our military and a strong national defense is more important than ever. That's where the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet comes in.

The combat-proven F-35 is the national-defense strategy in action. It is the most lethal, survivable, and connected aircraft in the world. Capable of flying at 1.6 times the speed of sound — and without being observed on radar — the F-35 gives our pilots an advantage against any opponent and enables them to execute their mission. Most importantly, it allows our pilots to come home safely.

Recently, at the Duluth Air Show, I was fortunate enough to experience the F-35 for myself during a 20-minute simulated flight where I was instructed by U.S. Air Force F-35 Demo Pilot Capt. Andrew "Dojo" Olson. In the following days, I also had the chance to see these jets in action. It was remarkable to witness their speed, agility, and power.

I am a proud supporter of the 148th Fighter Wing here in Duluth and know it is mission-ready to be a base for the F-35. In addition to having the same mission as the F-35 — the "suppression of enemy air defenses" mission — the 148th continues to invest in its infrastructure and has the largest airspace in the country for training.

My wife Jodi served at the 148th for 24 years, eventually becoming its first female command chief. Throughout her time there, I came to understand that the brave men and women of the 148th are part of the foundation of our community and play a crucial role in providing for our state and national defense. As they continue to serve alongside our active-duty military, it is only right to provide them with the same state-of-the-art fighter aircraft used by active-duty military.

Minnesota already plays a critical role in the F-35 program, with 24 suppliers across the state, accounting for 1,565 direct and indirect jobs and contributing more than $134 million annually to our state's economy. Should the F-35 move to northern Minnesota, this economic prosperity would increase exponentially.

Bringing the F-35 to the 148th Fighter Wing would modernize the base, ensure its continued positive impact in our community, and help protect our homeland and the security of our allies across the globe. For that reason, I, along with members of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, recently met with officials at the Pentagon to request the F-35 be based at the 148th.

It is the duty of Congress to provide for our national defense, so I have made it my priority to base the F-35 here in the Northland. While this will not happen overnight, I remain committed to working with local community leaders as well as the rest of the Minnesota's congressional delegation in achieving this goal.