13 WTHR IndianapolisPentagon to change mission of Fort Wayne air base

Pentagon to change mission of Fort Wayne air base

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FORT WAYNE -

The commander of Indiana Air National Guard's 122nd Fighter Wing says the Pentagon's decision to change the Fort Wayne base's mission isn't all bad news because some thought it might close.

The Air Force announced Friday that A-10 jets now housed at the base will be replaced by MC-12 aircraft. The Air Force announced it is downsizing and shifting capabilities.

Augustine concedes there is concern because the MC-12 aircraft's primary mission is providing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support. He says the Fort Wayne base has a legacy of flying fighter aircraft. Augustine says Indiana Adjutant General Martin Umbarger will work to keep the A-10 fighter jet in Fort Wayne.

The base is scheduled to begin losing fighter jets in the fall and start getting the MC12s in October 2013.

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