SE North Carolina News

Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) released a video statement today highlighting his provision that fully prohibits the Air Force from divesting F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The provision is part of the Senate’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Senator Budd, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, emphasized the importance of this decision for both national security and the local community in Goldsboro and Wayne County.

"I’d like to share some great news for our state and the good folks in the Goldsboro community. I was able to secure a provision in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act that fully protects F-15E Strike Eagles at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base through 2029," said Senator Budd.

The Air Force had planned to eliminate 26 Strike Eagles from Seymour Johnson next year, which Budd argued would negatively impact national security and harm the local community. He cited recent contributions by North Carolina’s 335th Fighter Squadron in defending Israel against drones and missiles from Iran as evidence of the aircraft's continued relevance.

"Remember, aircraft from North Carolina’s 335th Fighter Squadron helped defend Israel by shooting down dozens of drones and missiles from Iran earlier this year. And the F-15Es have received praise from our country’s top military leaders. They have called Strike Eagles phenomenal, very capable, and critical for scenarios in the Indo-Pacific," he added.

Budd expressed satisfaction with his colleagues' agreement on maintaining these aircraft at Seymour Johnson AFB: "I am thrilled that my colleagues agreed with me that eliminating these aircraft was a misguided decision by the Air Force. I’ll continue to fight to ensure that the future of Seymour Johnson is bright."

He also reiterated his commitment to supporting military personnel stationed in North Carolina: "North Carolina is the proud home of eight military installations, and I am proud to represent the men and women in uniform who call our state home. I will continue to work as hard as I can to deliver wins to keep the United States of America a strong nation for decades to come."

The background provided further details on why retaining these aircraft is crucial: despite plans for divestment, many top military officials have praised their capabilities during committee hearings led by Senator Budd.

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