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South Dakota National Guard Seeks Community Support for F-35 Jets

September 29, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

South Dakota National Guard seeks community support for F-35 jets.
The 114th Fighter Wing is currently operating F-16s.
The Air Force is choosing locations for the F-35s.
South Dakota is competing with eight other locations.

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Strategic Implications

The selection of South Dakota for the F-35 program may indicate the state's growing importance in national defense, which could lead to increased investment and economic growth. The decision may also suggest a shift in the Air Force's priorities towards states with strong engineering and cybersecurity programs, which could benefit other locations with similar capabilities.

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What Happened

Adjutant General Urges Business Leaders to Back New Fighter Jets in Sioux Falls

The South Dakota National Guard is urging community support for the introduction of new F-35 fighter jets in Sioux Falls, with the adjutant general emphasizing the need for a strong case to be made to the Secretary of the Air Force. The 114th Fighter Wing, currently operating F-16s, is in line for an upgrade, and South Dakota is competing with eight other locations for the new jets. The state’s engineering programs and cybersecurity capabilities are seen as key selling points, and the business community is being encouraged to submit supportive letters to the state’s Congressional delegation. This development was reported by South Dakota Searchlight.

Source | Originally Published: September 28, 2026

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