Capital District Times

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Congressman Paul Tonko, along with other members of the New York congressional delegation, have called for immediate action to update the New York Air National Guard's LC-130H "Skibird" planes, crucial for strategic airlift capability in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The lawmakers expressed their concerns in a bipartisan letter led by Stefanik and Tonko to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin.

The letter highlighted the significance of the LC-130H fleet operated by the 109th Airlift Wing, stating, "We write with deep concern regarding the United States’ ability to maintain a strategic presence in the Arctic and Antarctic regions due to the aging LC-130 Hercules (LC-130H) fleet." They emphasized the unique role these planes play in providing critical logistical support in these regions and urged the DoD to prioritize the recapitalization of these essential aircraft.

With geopolitical tensions rising, particularly with Russia and China expanding their interests in the polar regions, the lawmakers underscored the importance of the United States maintaining a strong presence in the Arctic and Antarctic. They emphasized the necessity for the U.S. to be prepared for great power competition in these areas and highlighted the crucial role of the LC-130H aircraft in transporting supplies within the polar regions.

Reps. Stefanik and Tonko were joined by several other members of the New York congressional delegation in advocating for the update of the LC-130H planes, recognizing the critical role these aircraft play in ensuring U.S. presence and capabilities in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.