Guard general opposes A-10 removal at Ind. base - Military News | News From Afghanistan, Iraq And Around The World - Military Times

Guard general opposes A-10 removal at Ind. base

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The head of the Indiana National Guard thinks the Air Force is making a mistake in removing A-10 fighter jets from the Fort Wayne base and replacing them with reconnaissance aircraft.

The Journal Gazette reports that Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger told a news conference Wednesday he believes the Air Force should keep the A-10 Warthogs not only in Fort Wayne, but elsewhere. He says the A-10s are cost-efficient and valuable and make sense for the nation.

The 122nd Fighter Wing is among four Guard bases that would begin flying the MC-12 reconnaissance aircraft under a plan announced Friday.

The Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Wayne Base Community Council announced a letter-writing campaign Wednesday to support keeping the A-10s.