U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey made the following statement today regarding the proposed budget cuts to the Air Force’s F/A-22 Raptor jet and C-130J aircraft programs:

“A strong military helps us live in a safer society, and modern, technologically advanced machinery helps ensure America’s servicemen are well prepared for the threats they face.

“The F/A-22 is the most technologically advanced fighter aircraft ever made. It’s the first Air Force plane that is undetectable to enemy radars 24-hours a day, and is capable of flying faster and at higher speeds than any other U.S. aircraft. The C-130J provides needed modernization to American airlift capabilities, and allows the U.S. to quickly transport personnel and supplies to our troops.

“We can’t make the dangerous mistake of cutting F/A-22 and C-130J production.  The U.S. military recently tested American fighter jets against French and Russian planes in an exercise called Cope India.  Shockingly, Russian aircraft beat American planes 90 percent of the time. 

“America has the best pilots in the world, but without the best technology our forces will lag behind those of our potential enemies. As we modernize our military to meet the challenges of future threats, we must make sure our servicemen have the most technologically advanced aircraft available.

“We can’t let civilian bureaucrats under the current Secretary of Defense make decisions that could harm the protection of our nation. We should listen to our military commanders and warfighters.  They understand how important the F/A-22 and C-130J are to the Air Force’s mission of protecting and defending our homeland.”

F/A-22 and C-130J aircraft are manufactured in Congressman Gingrey’s congressional district, at the Lockheed Martin plant in Marietta, Georgia. 

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