Kelly, Sinema Lead Bipartisan Arizona Delegation Letter to Air Force on Future of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base 

Today, Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema and U.S. Representatives Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) and Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) wrote to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, urging him to work closely with the Arizona congressional delegation and the local Tucson community to secure the long-term future of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.  

“Given the advantages the base offers to the Air Force, from its very favorable year-round flying conditions and considerable range space to its proximity to leading defense industry partners, it should and must maintain a critical role in our national defense,” the letter says.  

The members continue, “In recent days, we have been briefed by the Air Force on its plan for the base’s mission over the next five years, and we were encouraged by the Air Force’s intention to bring new, durable flying missions to the base. Our hope is to work together, alongside the Air Force and the local Tucson community, to secure the long-term future of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and protect our national security.”  

As Congress continues its work on the annual National Defense Authorization Act and appropriations, the Senators and Representatives ask that Secretary Kendall and his staff expand community engagement with Tucson defense stakeholders and other elected and community leaders, and provide regular updates to the congressional delegation on progress including facility reviews, military construction, and incoming missions.  

Read the full text of the letter to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall here.