Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts and Deb Fischer, along with U.S. Representatives Don Bacon, Mike Flood, and Adrian Smith, have announced that the U.S. Air Force has selected Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska as the location for the new 95th Wing.

This announcement confirms a previous statement made by the Nebraska delegation in August regarding the Air Force's intention to activate the new 95th Wing at Offutt.

The mission of the 95th Wing will be to enhance strategic command and control as a subordinate unit of the Air Force Global Strike Command. By centralizing nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) at Offutt, the Air Force aims to streamline its planning and administrative functions. The wing is expected to be fully operational by January and will add approximately 70 personnel to Offutt.

Senator Ricketts commented on the development: “Offutt Air Force Base will continue to play a critical role in ensuring America’s strategic deterrence against existing and emerging threats posed by adversaries like China and Russia. Nebraska is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.” He also expressed anticipation for welcoming new personnel to Omaha as part of this unit.

Senator Fischer highlighted Nebraska's role: “The Air Force’s choice of Offutt as home to the 95th Wing reinforces Nebraska’s status as the center of gravity for NC3 missions.” She noted Nebraska's pride in its contribution to national defense.

Representative Bacon described it as "excellent news" for both Offutt Air Force Base and Nebraska. He stated that basing the new wing at Offutt results from years of effort by both the Air Force and Nebraska’s Congressional delegation. According to him, this move will strengthen America's strategic nuclear deterrent command control while providing economic benefits for Omaha.

Representative Flood emphasized growth opportunities: “As Offutt Air Force Base begins its second century, the 95th Wing will not only grow the base’s role in serving our Armed Forces but also its footprint, creating great jobs right here in Nebraska’s First District.”

Representative Smith acknowledged Nebraska's leadership in air defense: “Nebraska’s longstanding air defense leadership is being appropriately recognized and permanently expanded with the full activation of the 95th Wing.” He commended servicemembers for their readiness amid global security challenges.