Duluth Council Backs F-35s for Fighter Wing

City officials formally requested the Air Force assign F-35 fighter jets to the local 148th Fighter Wing.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Military

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a stylized jet engine nozzle, representing military aviation infrastructure. — The Duluth City Council voted unanimously to urge the Air Force to base F-35 Lightning II aircraft at the local 148th Fighter Wing. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Duluth City Council voted seven to zero to support the 148th Fighter Wing's bid to acquire F-35 Lightning II jets. The unit currently operates aging F-16s and is competing against eight other squadrons for the new aircraft.

Why it matters

The 148th Fighter Wing employs 1,000 people and provides fire services to Duluth International Airport. Securing the jets is considered critical to ensuring the future of the unit and its employees in the city.

The Council approved the resolution by a vote of seven to zero, while two councilors abstained. The unit must submit its collection of support letters to the Air Force before the final selection of two squadrons next year.

The players

Duluth City Council

This is the primary legislative body governing the city of Duluth that manages municipal budgets and official policy resolutions.

148th Fighter Wing

This is a unit of the Air National Guard that provides defense capabilities and municipal emergency services to the local region.

U.S. Air Force

This is the branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for aerial warfare and the management of aircraft procurement programs.

The details

The City Council rejected a proposal to delay the vote until after the November 3 election before approving the support letter. The military has indicated that this could represent the final round of F-35 assignments as defense priorities shift toward autonomous aircraft.

October 26, 2026: The City Council voted to support the jet acquisition.
October 29, 2026: The deadline for the 148th to collect support letters.
November 3, 2026: The date of the federal election.
November 5, 2026: The Air Force panel meets to review squadron proposals.
2034: The expected arrival date of the new aircraft.

Political Context

Opponents or skeptics of the resolution may raise concerns regarding the long-term viability of manned fighter squadrons as the Air Force's transition toward autonomous aircraft continues. This pivot creates a competitive landscape where units must secure assets now to ensure operational relevance.

The 148th Fighter Wing currently provides essential fire department services to Duluth International Airport for local residents. The successful acquisition of these jets would maintain the base's 1,000 jobs, providing significant economic stability for the local community.

The takeaway

Maintaining the 148th Fighter Wing serves as a critical economic pillar for the local workforce. Residents should monitor the Air Force's selection process through the next year to understand the long-term outlook for employment at the base.