LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The United States Air Force recently revealed that Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County would be the new host for a squadron of aerial refueling tankers, after being passed up for several other aviation programs.  

State Senator Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), who has been advocating for bringing programs to the base, weighed in on the recent news, sharing his gratitude to the U.S. Air Force and adding “it’s truly a win for our state!” 

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“As Chair of the Michigan Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military, Veterans and State Police, securing the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base has been my top priority,” Sen. Hertel said in a statement. “The base is not only essential to our national security; it also helps fuel our regional economy and is a source of community pride.

He also shared his hopes for the future regarding the new program. “I also look forward to continuing working with other state and federal leaders to secure a future fighter mission, and fully cement Selfridge’s standing as a premier base for years to come.” 

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) also shared his support for the new program. 

“HUGE NEWS: Selfridge is receiving a full squadron of 12 next-gen KC-46A aerial refueling tankers, which will help set the base up for success for the next 50+ years,” he said on X (formerly Twitter). “Selfridge is absolutely essential to Michigan, and I’ll keep fighting to secure its future.” 

Last March, Michigan lost out on the opportunity to host a new international training center for the F-35 fighter aircraft, after the USAF chose to make the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in  Arkansas the host base. 

Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders weighed in yesterday, voicing her support of the decision calling the state an “international powerhouse,” and acknowledged the states “important role in training, equipping, and supplying our friends across the globe.” 

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Governor Sanders said in a statement. “I look forward to welcoming the new U.S. Air Force personnel who will be moving to our state and am excited for all our international partners to discover the meaning of Arkansas hospitality. The Fort Smith community was instrumental in securing this major new mission for Ebbing Air National Guard Base – they have my deepest gratitude for their hard work.”

Last spring, Selfridge began construction of a new 41,900 square foot facility to build a new hangar. 

“The new facility will house maintenance on the main level and leadership/staff offices and classrooms on the second floor,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office said in a statement.

Gov. Whitmer also claimed that it would create hundreds of good paying jobs and “shore up” the bases military readiness. 

In the 2024 State Budget, Sen. Hertel helped to ensure $13 million for the base for important updates including an expanded runway to help prepare it for future missions.