Air Force Considering Ohio Base

SWANTON, Ohio (AP) -- Military officials say the U.S. Air Force is considering northwest Ohio for one of two Air National Guard bases that will house next-generation fighter jets.

The Blade newspaper (http://bit.ly/… ) reports an Ohio Air National Guard base at Toledo Express Airport in Swanton could become home to F-35A Joint Strike Fighter jets.

Jets assigned to Air National Guard bases are expected to be delivered in six or seven years. Bases in Detroit and Fort Wayne, Indiana, also are being considered.

Environmental impact studies are planned for the Swanton base later this year. The Air Force plans to name candidates this summer before choosing primary and alternate sites.

The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce executive director says she doesn't think the base would need to be significantly expanded.

(KA)