June 12, 2013

Rep. Vargas Pushes to Have NAF El Centro Analyzed as F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Homebase

Washington, DC (June 12, 2013) –Today, before the House Committee on Rules, Congressman Juan Vargas (D-CA) is introducing an amendment to H.R. 1960, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  The amendment would require the Secretary of Defense to complete a comparative financial study of the F-35 homebasing at Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro and Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore before selecting the homebasing location.

“Based on preliminary numbers I have seen, it appears as though NAF El Centro is incredibly well suited to serve as the homebase for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF),” said Rep. Vargas.  “Its proximity to training ranges and service depots, and the need for less detachment training makes NAF El Centro the ideal location.  In addition, Southern California’s weather, which is some of the best for flying in the country, reduces potential delays and climate-related costs.”

The comparative study required in the amendment would include analyzing the military construction costs associated with homebasing the F-35 at each site, the annual operational costs to perform training missions, costs associated with detachment training, and the estimated costs of flying F-35 aircrafts to and from each location.  In addition, the study would look at any cost savings that might be achieved at each location. 

“Studying the overall costs associated with flight distance, training, and construction is the smart and responsible thing to do, especially at a time when we are working to reduce the deficit and balance our budget,” said Rep. Vargas.  “I am hopeful that this study will deliver valuable and pertinent information that shows NAF El Centro as the best option.”

Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire U.S./Mexico border.  Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress.  He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.