Detroit Free Press: Selfridge pitch for F-35 jets could get boost from Sen. Peters' proposal

U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., this week won approval of a measure added to the annual defense authorization that could help Selfridge Air National Guard Base's chances of getting new F35 aircraft.

The measure, Peters' office said, makes it clear that the Air Force may move a base's current contingent of A10 aircraft — such as those at Selfridge — if it clears the way toward the Air Force's plans as it decides where to locate the new F35s.

Selfridge, in Harrison Township, is among five National Guard bases across the U.S. competing to be one of two homes to as many as 18 of the new fighter aircraft.

But with strict rules about moving or replacing the A10s already in place, Peters wanted to make sure that wasn't a hindrance to the base. Some other bases were said to be touting their lack of A10s to their favor, because of the strict rules about moving them.

“The next generation F35 mission is a key example of how new technology will transform war-fighting, and the 127th (Air National Guard) Wing at Selfridge is experienced, equipped and ready to host this mission," said Peters.

Retaining the A10s — which had been marked for termination by the Air Force — had been a primary concern of officials at Selfridge, with worries high that losing them could make the Macomb County base vulnerable in any coming round of closures.

Last December, however, Selfridge was placed on the list of five finalists to receive the new F35s. In July, Air Force officials toured the base as part of the decision-making process. Officials at the Pentagon told the Free Press this week that a decision is expected this fall.

Peters' amendment was included in the annual defense authorization act, which the Senate passed this week on an 89-8 vote. It now goes to back to the U.S. House to iron out differences before being voted on a final time and sent to President Donald Trump to be signed into law.