Tuberville, Britt Congratulate Sumpter Smith on Being Selected as Finalist for the KC-46A Main Operating Base

WASHINGTON - Today,U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Katie Britt (R-AL) announced that Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base is selected as a finalist to be the home of the KC-46A Tanker.

"Alabama continues to be a leader in cutting-edge military equipment and technology," said Senator Tuberville. "Sumpter Smith, home of the 117^th Air Refueling Wing, is dedicated to providing air refueling and airlift support across Alabama and our nation. I am proud that Alabama is such a pro-military state and hope to see Sumpter selected for this designation next year."

"I am proud Birmingham's Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base has been selected as a finalist for this important basing decision. Alabama is the arsenal of the world, and because of that we have incredible communities, synergies, and personnel ready, willing, and able to support this potential investment by the Air Force," said Senator Britt. "Sumpter Smith is already well-suited to handle the recapitalization of KC-46A due to existing infrastructure that will save the Air Force money and only require a nominal investment. The close proximity to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is also beneficial as the runway allows the 117th Air Refueling Wing to launch with full fuel capacity. This is critical given growing threats around the globe. I firmly believe Sumpter Smith is the best possible choice, and we will continue to encourage the Air Force to choose Alabama."

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans' Affairs, and HELP Committees.

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