The Air National Guard has initiated a $7 million improvement project for the ANG facility at Joe Foss Airport in Sioux Falls, S.D., including the replacement of the 114th Fighter Wing’s squadron operations complex, the Argus Leader reports. The existing complex dates back to the 1950s. Officials expect the new building to be finished by January 2007. Work is also under way on the base’s administration building and the entrance gate, road, and entry building.
The Air Force is spending heavily on F-22 improvements through the end of the decade, suggesting it may not retire the jet in 2030 as it previously planned. New sensors, fuel tanks, communications, and electronic warfare systems are among the upgrades that comprise the package.