PANAMA CITY, FL – Today, Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released a statement following a Record of Decision issued by the U.S. Air Force, making Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, the official location to host three new squadrons of the F-35A Lightning II.

“Tyndall Air Force Base is the perfect choice to host three new squadrons of the F-35A Lightning II, the future of the U.S. Air Force. Tyndall was hit hard by Hurricane Michael in 2018, and I’m grateful to the U.S. Air Force for committing to rebuilding the base immediately following the storm. This addition is exactly what the base and the surrounding area need to further recover and thrive. Not only will building these new squadrons bring new jobs to the community, but thousands will soon call Florida’s Second Congressional District ‘home’. Many thanks to everyone who helped in this process!”

According to a recent press release from Tyndall AFB, the F-35s will be delivered to three fighter squadrons in multiple phases, with the first aircraft planned to arrive in September 2023. Each of the squadrons will have 24 Joint Strike Fighters assigned; totaling 72 aircraft assigned to Tyndall’s 325th Fighter Wing once full mission capability is achieved.

Congressman Dunn has worked tirelessly to ensure Tyndall Air Force Base is rebuilt in the wake of Hurricane Michael. He has secured commitments from leaders at all levels of government that the base will be rebuilt, including the previous Presidential Administration, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, and other national leaders. In late 2018, the U.S. Air Force announced that Tyndall Air Force Base would be the future home to three squadrons of F-35s. This Record of Decision is an important next step in this process.

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