Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that the United States Air Force has decided it will designate a new F-16 Action Association at the Minnesota National Guard’s 148^th Fighter Wing in Duluth. Under active association, the U.S. Air Force assigns active duty personnel to National Guard or Reserve bases.  At the Duluth air base, active association will allow regular active duty airmen to work side-by-side with National Guard airmen and learn from their experience and expertise.  The designation will also help ensure the base’s long-term future and help increase economic activity in the Duluth community.  Klobuchar worked closely with the Air Force, Minnesota National Guard, and local community to secure the active association designation.

“The Bulldogs of the 148^th are a critical asset to our nation’s defense and a valuable part of the Duluth community,”said Klobuchar. “I worked closely with  to bring active association to the 148^th Fighter Wing as part of a long-term plan. Allowing active duty personnel to work side by side with our exceptional National Guard airmen will keep this vital base strong and strengthen the security of our nation.”

Under active association, the 148^th Fighter Wing will serve as the host wing and maintain primary responsibility for weapons systems, but share the mission with the regular Air Force associate wing. Active association has the potential to benefit the 148^th Fighter Wing, the Air Force, and the Duluth community by:

·         Increasing revenue in Northland by having the active duty members spend money in the community rather than on an active duty base;

·         Enhancing active duty training by leveraging the experience of Guard personnel;

·         Promoting better and more cost-effective utilization of resources between active duty and Guard components;

·         Ensuring the long-term viability and success of the 148^th Fighter Wing.

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