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Staff Reports

U.S. Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) joined Lockheed Martin, Moody Air Force Base, and the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, area elected officials and community leaders for an update on the Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Lightning II fighter jet – the most advanced fighter jet in the world and a key economic driver in the Peach State. The F-35 generates more than $866 million in annual revenue in Georgia and provides more than 5,000 total jobs at 37 supplier locations throughout the state every year. In addition, the largest F-35 sub-assembly known as the inner wing is made in Marietta, Georgia. Moody Air Force Base and the 23^rd Wing support national security interests through global operations, including training the next generation of fighter pilots.

Using the cockpit demonstrator for a virtual flight, U.S. Representative Austin Scott experienced firsthand the unmatched agility, unparalleled stealth capabilities and advanced integrated communications systems. The fully interactive cockpit demonstrator provides an unprecedented look at the F-35’s exceptional maneuverability and ability to avoid incoming threats while collecting and providing critical intelligence to support ongoing peacekeeping missions.

“All of Georgia is extremely excited to see the F-35A Lightning II coming to Moody Air Force Base. The F-35A is the world’s most advanced multi-role 5th generation stealth fighter,” said U.S. Representative Austin Scott. “The 23^rd Wing will ensure our pilots are well-trained in the F-35A and prepared for any adversary while conducting operations ranging from achieving air dominance to destroying the enemy on the ground in close air support.”

“Moody Air Force Base plays a vital role in our local economy and our nation’s security. The Chamber was honored to join Congressman Austin Scott, Moody Air Force Base leadership, local officials, and Lockheed Martin in recognizing the impact of the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet and celebrating the coming F-35 mission to Moody Air Force Base” said Christie Moore, President, Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce.

More than 1,000 F-35s have been delivered, and today the fighter is supporting the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marines along with the militaries of 18 allied nations including the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Japan and South Korea.

For additional information, visit our websites: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/ and www.f35.com. 

About Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at  https://www.lockheedmartin.com/

About Moody Air Force Base

The 23rd Wing’s mission is to optimally organize, train, equip and deploy precision attack, personnel recovery, and combat support. The Wing organizes, trains and employs combat-ready aircraft and is home to the Air Force’s legendary “Flying Tigers” consisting of five groups, with 21 squadrons comprised of more than 4,000 Airmen. The wing provides close air support, forward air control and combat support for combatant commander requirements worldwide. The 23d Wing also provides combat search and rescue and personnel recovery capabilities.

About the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce

Established on Sept. 1, 1912, the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber is committed to fulfilling the mission of being the catalyst for business growth, cultivator of people, connector of ideas and resources, and champion for a thriving community. The Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber is comprised of more than 1,000 members.