F-35 Modernization and the Future of the 148th Fighter Wing
On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we meet leaders from the Minnesota National Guard and Minnesota Air National Guard to explore the 148th Fighter Wing’s mission and the case for F-35 modernization in Duluth. The conversation covers the wing’s current F-16 operations, the Air Force selection process, preparations for a potential transition, and the essential role of community support in shaping the wing’s future.
Guests:
- COL Curtis Grayson – Commander, 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard
- COL Daniel Statz – Director A4 Logistics, Minnesota Air National Guard
- LTC Mindy Davis – Government Relations Officer, Minnesota National Guard
The 148th Fighter Wing, based at the Duluth Air National Guard Base, currently flies the Block 50 F-16, the newest and most capable F-16 in the Air Force inventory. Its primary federal mission is Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD), locating and neutralizing enemy surface-to-air threats so other forces can operate freely. The wing also supports state missions and has maintained high readiness and manning levels for decades, with Airmen drawn from the local community.
Guests discuss why the Minnesota National Guard is pursuing F-35 basing now, even though aircraft would not arrive until approximately 2034. The Air Force is selecting two squadrons from nine F-16 Air National Guard units; four candidate bases are expected to be identified by the end of 2026, followed by site visits, a longer environmental impact statement process, and a final decision. The wing’s leadership highlights strengths that include unmatched training airspace, consistently high manning, top-tier maintenance, and a proven operational record. COL Statz brings direct experience from Wisconsin’s 115th Fighter Wing F-35 transition, including lessons on community engagement, infrastructure, and the conversion process.
Community and political support are described as decisive. The Duluth Military Affairs Committee, part of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce and originally formed about 20 years ago when the base faced potential closure, has coordinated letters and resolutions from local governments, businesses, and civic organizations. The wing generates roughly $107 million in annual economic activity for the region, employs more than 1,000 military and civilian personnel, and operates the airport’s fire department. Minnesota has already invested $3.5 million in state bonding for design and infrastructure work to position the base for the future.
A successful F-35 mission would allow the 148th to continue its SEAD role with modernized aircraft while preserving the wing’s economic and community contributions for the next generation. Leaders emphasize that continued community advocacy and a unified message remain important as the selection process moves forward.
