Study finds Luke AFB first choice for F-35s
Jun 14, 2012, 8:42 AM | Updated: 8:46 am
GLENDALE, Ariz. — Luke Air Force Base appears to be the U.S. Air Force’s
first choice for the location of a new training center for F-35 fighter jets.
The Arizona Republic reported the Air Force released a
study Wednesday, saying the base in the west Phoenix suburb of Glendale is the preferred site.
The study analyzed the potential noise, land-use and other issues surrounding
Luke and three other sites in New Mexico, Idaho and at the Tucson International
Airport.
Officials expect to announce a final decision in July.
If chosen, Luke could receive up to $125 million in federal funds for
construction-related projects and F-35s could arrive as early as next year.
The F-35 is intended to eventually replace the aging F-16. The base has long
been the training ground for F-16 pilots.
___
Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com
